Grandma’s Hands by Bill Withers | Lyrics and Guitar Chords

Bill Withers’ “Grandma’s Hands” is a masterclass in how a simple, yet soulful melody can evoke deep emotions. Guitarists looking to delve into soul music would find this track particularly enlightening. While it boasts a minimalist arrangement, the power lies in its authenticity, emphasizing Withers’ heartfelt tribute to his grandmother.  His grandfather was born into slavery and his grandmother often took Withers to church to clap along to hymns at their church. The song speaks of his longing for his grandmother’s protection again. 

As you strum along, take a moment to appreciate the song’s subtle complexities – how just a few chords can paint a vivid picture of love, memories, and life lessons. Additionally, its influence in contemporary music, notably the sample in Blackstreet’s “No Diggity,” showcases its timeless appeal. As you learn and play “Grandma’s Hands,” let it be a testament to the beauty of simplicity and the profound impact a song can have when it comes straight from the heart. Whether you’re performing for an audience or simply reflecting in solitude, channel the pure emotion that Bill Withers infused into this classic track.

Grandma’s Hands comes from Bill Wither’s first album, which was produced by Booker T. of the famous Stax Records session band. 

You can learn the chords you need to play Grandma’s Hands by Bill Withers in the Uberchord app. This app features a guitar chord trainer and a strumming trainer. It listens to your guitar chords and gives you visual feedback in real-time in case you make a mistake.

Key of the Song:

The original key of Grandma’s Hands by Bill Withers is in G major.

Guitar Chords for Grandma’s Hands by Bill Withers

This is a great song for beginners as it only has three chords in it. Am to E7 is almost the same shape so it’ll be easy to change into and out of. D7 to E7 can be played easily by focusing on using your 3rd finger to play the 2nd fret of the high E string.

Video Lesson

Grandma’s Hands by Bill Withers – Lyrics with Chords

[Intro]
Am
 Mmm-mm-mm, mmm-mm-mm.
 
[Verse 1]
Am
 Grandma's hands, clapped in church on Sunday morning,
                          E7
Grandma's hands, played a tambourine so well.
Am
 Grandma's hands, used to issue out a warning, she'd say;
E7                D7          E7               D7
 "Billy don't you run so fast; might fall on a piece of glass,
E7                      D7              Am
 "Might be snakes there in that grass", Grandma's hands.
 
[Verse 2]
Am
 Grandma's hands, soothed a local un-wed mother,
                         E7
Grandma's hands, used to ache sometimes and swell.
Am
 Grandma's hands, used to lift her face and tell her;
E7              D7          E7               D7
 "Baby, Grandma understands, that you really love that man,
E7               D7             Am
 Put yourself in Jesus' hands", Grandma's hands.
 
[Verse 3]
Am
 Grandma's hands, used to hand me piece of candy,
                           E7
Grandma's hands, picked me up each time I fell.
Am
 Grandma's hands, boy, they really came in handy, she'd say;
E7                D7            E7                D7
 "Matty don't you whip that boy, what you want to spank him for?
E7                 D7                 E7                 D7
 He didn't drop no apple core", but I don't have Grandma any more.
E7                   D7             Am
 If I get to Heaven, I'll look for, Grandma's hands.
 
[Outro]
Am
 Mmm-mm-mm.