March 8, 2022 by Klaus Crow
Hi Folks,
Today I’m going to teach you how to play “Knocking on heavens door” by Bob Dylan, also covered by Guns ‘n Roses. This is a great song to learn on the guitar and a “must” to have on your repertoire :)
It’s an easy version for beginners using open chords and a basic strumming pattern to make the learning process as smooth as possible.
How to Play “Knocking on heavens door” on Guitar
Knocking on heavens door is played with 4 chords: G – D – Am – C
You can learn the chords on The 8 Most Important Guitar Chords for Beginners
Here are two basic strumming patterns you can use to play the song:
Basic strumming pattern #1:
/ G ↓↓ D ↓↓ / Am ↓↓↓↓ / G ↓↓ D ↓↓ / C ↓↓↓↓ /
Basic strumming pattern #2:
/ G ↓↓↑ D ↓↓↑ / Am ↓↓↓↑↓↓↓↑ / G ↓↓ D ↓↓ / C ↓↓↓↑↓↓↓↑ /
Watch the video guitar lesson below to learn the entire song step by step.
Please share your feedback in the comments below or on Youtube. I read and reply to everyone of them. I’d love to hear from you!
Enjoy!
Robert Sears says
Looks like a great lesson.
Gerald Pugh-Roberts says
Really enjoyed the Knocking on heavens door lesson. and can now play it.
Klaus Crow says
Hi Robert,
Thanks. It’s definitely worth the practice! ;)
Klaus Crow says
Hi Gerald,
Wow! That’s fast.
Nice to hear you’ve learned the song.
I assume the explanation was clear. :)
Best,
Klaus
Gord Dowling says
Great Lesson Klauss. You really make it easy to follow and understand.
Thanks.