In this guitar tutorial for Chris Stapleton’s Tennessee Whiskey by Learn to play without using a capo, we will cover both an easy rhythm part that’s beginner friendly as well as an intricacious solo that challenges intermediate players. Standard tuning will be used.
Tennessee whiskey is an iconic spirit with specific requirements that must be fulfilled for it to meet these high standards. Though similar to bourbon in terms of production methods, one step distinguishes it: filtering it through maple charcoal prior to aging (known as Lincoln County Process).
1. A Major
On November 4, 2015, Chris Stapleton stunned audiences at the CMA Awards with an unforgettable rendition of Tennessee Whiskey from his debut album Traveller – becoming one of the staples of modern country music.
Tennessee whiskey is produced under stringent requirements in Tennessee state. In particular, its production must comply with the Lincoln County Process which mandates filtering newly distilled spirit through charcoal before barreling for optimal mellowing characteristics that give this liquor its unique character.
This unassuming song is straightforward to play on guitar with only four chords needed – barre chords may initially seem intimidating but with practice you will become adept quickly!
2. B Minor
Though Jack Daniel’s still dominates the whiskey world with billions in annual sales, Tennessee boasts an array of distillers who experiment with grains, flavors and aging techniques – from Triple Smoke malt whiskey to aged Ryemageddon; these smaller brands are expanding spirits enthusiasts’ palates.
However, temperance and prohibition movements almost wiped out whiskey production in Tennessee; only a select few distilleries such as Jack Daniel’s and George Dickel managed to remain operational during that period.
Chris Stapleton gave this age-old tune new life when he recorded it for his 2015 album Traveller. This simple tune uses four chords and an easy strumming pattern, making it suitable for beginners as well as experienced players alike. Additionally, there’s even an elaborate riff between verses that presents new challenges to advanced musicians.
3. C Major
Chris Stapleton’s country song about an individual who’s spent too long trying to find happiness through drink is now much happier thanks to a new love interest in their life.
Tennessee whiskey is an outstanding style of distilled spirit characterized by stringent regulations. One such regulation involves Lincoln County Process, in which “new make spirit” (commonly referred to as white dog) is slowly dripped through charcoal from sugar maple trees for a mellowing process that distinguishes it from bourbon and contributes to its signature smoothness.
The chords in this song are straightforward and accessible, making it ideal for beginning country musicians. Keep in mind that its strumming pattern is in 6/8 time – each downstrum should take a bit longer.
4. D Major
Chris Stapleton made headlines as he won the Country Music Association Awards with his heartfelt rendition of Tennessee Whiskey at CMAs 2015. Its melodic lyrics and accessible chord progression make this song essential listening material for guitarists of any level of skill and expertise.
The acoustic guitar part in this song contains only two chords and can be enjoyed by beginners and intermediate guitarists alike. Beginners may enjoy using simple down-strums in the intro riff while intermediate players will find challenges in its solo part.
Tennessee whiskey has long been associated with Tennessee since early settlers arrived there in 1796. Distillers must follow specific guidelines when producing Tennessee whiskey; its production involves filtering it through maple charcoal filtration using Lincoln County Process, ageing in new charred oak barrels for at least 18 months, and bottling at no more than 80 proof proof strength.
5. E Major
E major is a beautiful bright key with four sharps that is easy to play. You can learn it either by following these chord diagrams below, or studying its scales (both treble and bass clef). Remember to practice both the scales ascending and descending as well as chords!
To play an E major chord, place your index finger at the fifth fret of the third string, with your thumb placed below the third fret and remaining fingers following the diagram shown below.
Once you’ve mastered E major chord, practice strumming it using the pattern as shown above in order to recreate Chris Stapleton’s Tennessee Whiskey guitar riff! This song is ideal for beginner guitarists as well as intermediate ones!