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Acoustic Guitar Classics – The Joker By The Steve Miller Band

Ayla Tesler-Mabe  /  LessonsJan 26, 2023

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In this beginner guitar lesson, Ayla Tesler-Mabe tackles “The Joker” by the Steve Miller Band. This is a great song to learn if you’re a fan of the acoustic guitar, and only have some basic skills under your belt. Before we get started, it’s important to know that we’ll be learning how to play this classic tune in a different key than the original recording. That way, we can use open chords that you’re likely already familiar with. To make things even easier, we’ll keep the strumming pattern as simple as it can get.

The Chords & Chord Progression

The chords you’ll need to know to play this song are G major, C major, and D major. If you’re not comfortable playing and switching between these chords yet, you can take some time to get them nailed down before proceeding with the rest of the lesson. 

The great thing about “The Joker,” is that you won’t need to learn any new chords as you move through the different sections of the tune. However, you’ll need to be prepared to change up the order of the chords, so having all three of these shapes committed to muscle memory is essential.

If you want to learn more songs like this, get access to our interactive practice tool, and learn from the most inspiring teachers, then you should check out the Guitareo Members’ Area. Just click the big green button below to start your free 7-day trial:

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