Tom T. Hall's 'That's How I Got to Memphis' – A Country Guitar Lesson You Can't Miss
If you're a country music lover and an aspiring guitarist, there's a classic song you simply can’t overlook – "That's How I Got to Memphis" by Tom T. Hall. This heartfelt country ballad is not only a testament to Hall's lyrical genius, but it's also a perfect track for those looking to deepen their guitar playing skills. Whether you’re a beginner or intermediate player, this song offers a beautiful blend of simple yet effective chord progressions, storytelling, and the iconic country guitar sound that will elevate your playing.
In this blog, we’ll break down “That’s How I Got to Memphis” from a guitar player's perspective, offering a step-by-step guide to mastering the song. Plus, we'll explore its historical significance in country music and how it influences modern guitar playing. Ready to learn the song and gain insight into the heart of country guitar? Let’s dive in.
Why “That's How I Got to Memphis” is Perfect for Guitar Players
Tom T. Hall, often called “The Storyteller,” wrote songs that were simple yet profound. "That's How I Got to Memphis" stands out for its straightforward but emotionally charged lyrics. The song follows a man’s journey to Memphis in search of his lost love, with an understated guitar arrangement that complements the lyrics perfectly.
For guitarists, this song is great for learning essential country techniques such as:
Chord Progressions: The song uses basic chords, making it a great choice for beginners.
Fingerpicking Patterns: While not overly complex, there are some fingerpicking elements that add a lot of character to the track.
Strumming: A perfect introduction to the steady, rhythm-driven style often seen in classic country songs.
Tension and Resolution: Like most good country songs, it teaches the art of creating tension through chord progressions and resolving it, something crucial in country guitar playing.
The Key of “That’s How I Got to Memphis”
The song is in the key of C, which is a familiar and accessible key for most guitarists. The basic chord progression includes:
C Major: The root chord, easy to play, and serves as the foundation for the song.
F Major: A common chord in country songs, providing that classic, wide-open sound.
G Major: Another staple in country music, giving the progression a sense of forward motion.
A minor: Adds a slightly melancholic touch, perfect for the emotional nature of the song.
Step-by-Step Guitar Lesson: How to Play “That’s How I Got to Memphis”
1. Chords You Need to Know
Before we get into the strumming and fingerpicking, let’s familiarize you with the chords you’ll use throughout the song. Here’s a quick rundown:
C Major: Open chord, place your 1st finger on the 1st fret of the B string, 2nd finger on the 2nd fret of the D string, and 3rd finger on the 3rd fret of the A string.
F Major: Barre chord. Barre all strings at the 1st fret with your index finger, and then form an E major shape with your other fingers.
G Major: Open chord, place your 2nd finger on the 3rd fret of the low E string, 1st finger on the 2nd fret of the A string, and 3rd finger on the 3rd fret of the B string.
A minor: Open chord, place your 1st finger on the 1st fret of the B string, 2nd finger on the 2nd fret of the D string, and 3rd finger on the 2nd fret of the G string.
2. Strumming Pattern
The strumming pattern is relatively simple but needs to match the song's laid-back, country vibe. For a steady rhythm, use the following pattern:
Down, down, up, up, down, up
This is the basic strumming pattern throughout most of the song. Focus on keeping your strumming hand relaxed and consistent. As you practice, try to emphasize the first downstroke for a fuller sound.
3. Fingerpicking Intro
The intro of "That’s How I Got to Memphis" features a subtle fingerpicking pattern. While not overly complicated, it gives the song a soft, reflective feel. For the intro, you'll start with the C major chord:
Pluck the 5th string (C note) with your thumb.
Pluck the 3rd string (G note) with your index finger.
Pluck the 2nd string (E note) with your middle finger.
Pluck the 1st string (C note) with your ring finger.
Repeat the pattern through the chord changes. This will give you a gentle, rolling feel that mimics the song’s reflective mood.
Advanced Guitar Tips: Emulating Tom T. Hall's Country Style
Once you've mastered the basics, here are a few advanced tips to elevate your playing and make it more in line with Tom T. Hall's style:
Use Fretboard Slides: Country guitarists like Hall often use smooth slides between chords to create a more expressive sound. Try sliding from C to G or from F to C to add more personality to the song.
Incorporate Simple Solos: In classic country style, solos are often short and sweet. Play around with the C major pentatonic scale to come up with a solo that fits the melody of the song.
Add Hammer-ons and Pull-offs: These techniques are essential in country guitar playing, giving your notes a smoother, more connected feel. Hammer-on from the open A string to the 2nd fret to add a bit of flair.
Why “That’s How I Got to Memphis” is Essential for Country Guitarists
“That’s How I Got to Memphis” is more than just a song to learn – it's a vital part of understanding classic country guitar. The song's accessibility for beginners, combined with its subtle complexity for more advanced players, makes it an ideal choice for guitarists looking to master the country style.
By learning this song, you’ll not only gain insight into the essential techniques of country guitar playing but also dive deeper into the storytelling tradition that defines the genre. Whether you’re strumming, fingerpicking, or soloing, “That’s How I Got to Memphis” will improve your skills and deepen your appreciation for classic country music.
Conclusion: Mastering the Country Sound with Tom T. Hall’s Music
Tom T. Hall’s "That’s How I Got to Memphis" offers an excellent opportunity to practice key guitar techniques while immersing yourself in the heart of country music. From basic chords to advanced country licks, this song will help you become a more versatile guitar player. With its soulful lyrics, simple chord progressions, and subtle guitar techniques, it’s a song every country guitarist should learn.
Start practicing today, and before you know it, you’ll be able to play "That’s How I Got to Memphis" with the same emotional depth as Tom T. Hall himself. Keep strumming, keep learning, and most importantly – enjoy the journey!