Learning this song on guitar is a great way to add a festive favorite to your repertoire. Whether you’re strumming along at a holiday party or serenading loved ones by the fire, Jingle Bell Rock is sure to spread Christmas cheer. With its simple chord progression and lively rhythm, it’s a must-learn for any guitar enthusiast this holiday season. So grab your guitar and let’s rock around the Christmas tree!

To the full list of Christmas songs

Intro (Riff & Chords)

The intro is iconic and can be played either as a riff or simplified chords.

Riff (Easy Version):

e|-----------------------------|  
B|-----------------------------|  
G|-----0---0-------------------|  
D|---2---2---2--0-------------|
A|-3---------------3---2--0---|  
E|-----------------------------|

Chords: Play C - G - C - G with a light strumming pattern.

Verse

Strumming pattern: Down, Down-Up, Up-Down-Up (D-DU-UDU)

Chords Progression:

C         G          C        G
Jingle bell, jingle bell, jingle bell rock

C         G          A minor     F
Jingle bells swing and jingle bells ring

C         G           A minor       F
Snowin’ and blowin’ up bushels of fun  

G                        C
Now the jingle hop has begun

Chorus

Strumming: Use the same pattern, or switch to steady downstrokes for a more driving rhythm.

Chords Progression:

C         G          C         G
Jingle bell, jingle bell, jingle bell rock

C         G          A minor    F
Jingle bells chime in jingle bell time

C       G         A minor         F
Dancin’ and prancin’ in Jingle Bell Square

G                   C
In the frosty air

Bridge

Am                 D
What a bright time, it's the right time

G                   C
To rock the night away

Am                  D
Jingle bell time is a swell time

G                        E
To go glidin' in a one-horse sleigh

Instrumental (Optional)

For the instrumental, you can play the verse progression or add a riff based on the intro.

Outro

The outro repeats the chorus progression with the lyrics ending on:
"That's the jingle bell rock!"

Tips for Beginners

  1. Practice Switching Chords: Focus on transitioning smoothly between the chords, particularly between Am and D, as these appear frequently.
  2. Simplify F: If F is challenging, use Fmaj7 by playing only the first four strings.
  3. Start Slow: Play at a slower tempo to master the strumming pattern and chords. Once you're comfortable, increase the speed.
  4. Sing Along: Singing while playing will help you stay in rhythm and add more fun to the practice.

Happy strumming and enjoy spreading holiday cheer with "Jingle Bell Rock"! 🎄🎸

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