Mama Knows
View chords used in this chart
Intro:
G C D C G C D G
G D C
Me and Jimmy Chrowder and a single cigarette
G D C
Crouched down in a stall out in the barn
G D C
Three puffs later we were sick as we could get
G D C D (C B bass lead)
praying we get better before we got home
Am D (C B bass lead)
she saw me comin' through the back door screen
Am Em C D
I knew the minute that she looked at me
Chorus
G C G C
Mama knows, Mama knows
G Em C D
somehow I think she's got a window to my soul
G C G C
Mama knows, Mama knows
Em Am C D
Even when I think it doesn't show
C G C D C
Mama knows, mama knows
Verse 2
Me and Becky Johnson ankle deep in ocean waves
pants rolled up and hearts out on our sleeves
both feelin' more than either one of us could say
that first love let the sweetest memory
Fifteen and shy I didn't tell a soul
how is that Mama never has to be told
Repeat Chorus
Bridge
Am D
I wasn't home when Mama passed away
Am
I didn't get to say I love you
D E
but I got this feelin'
Repeat chorus (key change up one whole step)
How to play Mama Knows
Use the controls above to change the key and text size. Follow the highlighted chords while listening, then practice each section slowly before playing at the original tempo.
What is the starting chord?
The first identified chord is G. You can transpose without leaving the page.
Can I play it on guitar or keyboard?
Yes. The chord progression works on acoustic guitar, electric guitar and keyboard. Adapt the voicings to your instrument and level.