Learn Amy Winehouse Songs on Guitar - Simple Acoustic Versions
In this video
In this Andy Guitar lesson, we explore the incredible songwriting, chord progressions and soulful harmony behind some of Amy Winehouse’s greatest songs — including Back to Black, You Know I'm No Good and Love Is a Losing Game.
Andy breaks down easy acoustic versions, major 7 chords, soulful rhythm playing and the famous Andalusian cadence that appears throughout classic soul and pop music.
This lesson also explores the influence of Mark Ronson, jazz harmony, chord substitutions and why Amy’s songs sound so timeless and emotional. Perfect for beginner and intermediate guitarists wanting to improve chord knowledge, rhythm feel and musicality while learning some of the best modern soul songs ever written.
SONGS FEATURED IN THE VIDEO
Valerie — Mark Ronson ft. Amy Winehouse (The Zuttons cover)
Main lesson focus and discussed in relation to Mark Ronson’s songwriting approach
Key guitar takeaways:
Easy capo acoustic version with Major 7 chords
Soul chord movement and strumming
Back to Black — Amy Winehouse
Key guitar takeaways:
Andalusian style cadence
Major 7 chords
Soul chord movement
Easy capo acoustic version
Hit the Road Jack — Ray Charles
Why it was included:
Referenced to explain the Andalusian cadence progression.
Key guitar takeaway:
Classic descending minor chord movement.
Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This) — Eurythmics
Why it was included:
Compared harmonically to the same chord progression style.
Key guitar takeaway:
Minimalist repeating chord structures.
You Know I'm No Good — Amy Winehouse
Why it was included:
Used to show how similar chord progressions can create very different songs.
Key guitar takeaway:
Groove, phrasing and soul rhythm guitar.
My Tears Dry on Their Own — Amy Winehouse
Why it was included:
Discussed as another example of incredible songwriting simplicity.
Key guitar takeaway:
Motown-inspired rhythm and repetitive hook writing.
Love Is a Losing Game — Amy Winehouse
Why it was included:
Used to demonstrate major 7 chord colours and minimal songwriting.
Key guitar takeaway:
Major 7 harmony and emotional chord phrasing.
'Valerie' free online chord sheet in E - link