Note, the video above includes fixes for the obvious tab mistakes that can be seen in my original YouTube version of this same lesson (from 2019). Thanks for the patience, and I hope you all enjoy! -DP (Sep 20, 2024)

Instructional PDF 6 pages

About This Lesson

Here’s 4 quick tips to keep in mind when going about learning Blackbird by The Beatles –– which is a song I’m currently learning for the very first time! I wanted to capture these insights while they’re fresh. Whether you go about learning Blackbird from my lesson (coming soon) or from some other teacher, these tips will help you get over some of the initial hurdles you may encounter.

Things I talk about:

1. You don’t have to play the entire song
2. You don’t have to play it the exact way Paul does
3. It’s okay to avoid the third string when starting out
4. It’s okay to simplify the 2 difficult chords

The point is to have fun, and not feel pressured by the weight of this song when getting started. From there, you can take it as as you want to go – whether your goal is to play it like Paul, or you just want to casually futz around with the chord shapes. Have fun!

Watch Paul McCartney play it live

If you’re curious how he plays it, give this a watch! Notice how strummy he is, both with his thumb and his index finger. As I state in my video, it’s okay if you don’t play it exactly like him!

Looking for a full Blackbird Lesson?

A few years after making the video above, I made a proper full-song tutorial! I am much more polished and practiced, as well — which I think makes for a very nice presentation.

Be sure to check out my Blackbird lesson page for all other song resources – including a full playthrough video and a link to my licensed song sheet.

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