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Rolling Stones Tears Go By
On The Acoustic

This song by The Rolling Stones Tears Go By, or it's official title As Tears Go By, was a departure from what other rock bands were doing in the mid 1960's.

Most songs were high volume and up-tempo when The Stones were recording this track. They slowed down the tempo and also used orchestration during the break of the song, which was highly unusual for that period in early rock music.

Below is info on this song as well as a free chord sheet, acoustic demo and more. If you'd like to purchase full lesson the fill tutorial it is also available for a small fee.

Rolling Stones As Tears Go By

As Tears Go By is a song by The Rolling Stones, released in 1964 and written by Mick Jagger, Keith Richards, and Rolling Stones' manager Andrew Loog Oldham. The song was originally written for Marianne Faithfull, who recorded the original version a few months before The Rolling Stones released their own version.

The song features a slow and melancholic melody, with lyrics that speak of the passage of time, the regrets of the past, and the fleeting nature of youth. It was a departure from the rock and roll sound for which the Stones were known at the time.

"As Tears Go By" became a hit in the UK and helped establish The Rolling Stones as a more versatile and mature band. It has since become a classic song and has been covered by many artists over the years, including Nancy Sinatra and The Damned.

The track can be found on their Right Tide And Green Grass album.

Song Meaning

The song is about nostalgia and sadness, thinking about the past and simple joys of life. It received positive reviews and became popular in the US and the UK.

Musically, it's dominated by acoustic guitar, percussion, and strings, making it a great choice for guitar players to learn.

It showed that the Rolling Stones were more than just a rock band; they could write songs with deep emotions, which broadened their fan base.

As Tears Go By
Chords, Lyrics, Rhythm Tips, Tutorials

Chords & Lyrics

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As Tears Go By Chords

For guitar players, learning this song can be a rewarding experience because it's different from their usual rock songs. But as you'll see from the demo on this one, it isn't a difficult play at all.

Drop D Tuning: No
Capo: No
Rhythm: 1-2 down up down up down up and repeat where 1-2 is arpeggio notes of the chord
Picking: Yes
Chords: G, A, C, D, D/Gb, Em

As Tears Go By Lyrics

It is the evening of the day
I sit and watch the children play
Smiling faces I can see, but not for me
I sit and watch as tears go by

My riches can't buy everything
I want to hear the children sing
All I hear is the sound of rain fallin' on the ground
I sit and watch as tears go by

It is the evening of the day
I sit and watch the children play
Doin' things I used to do, they think are new
I sit and watch as tears go by

Umm Umm Umm Ummm - Umm Umm Umm Ummm

As Tears Go By Trivia

Some trivia: The song was originally titled "As Time Goes By," but they changed it to avoid confusion with a song from the movie "Casablanca."

More Rolling Stones Songs

Rolling Stones As Tears Go By Covers

Many artists have covered this song over the years, and the Rolling Stones even recorded it in Italian while they were in Paris.

The recording process was different from their usual style, which is loud and energetic. They created a softer atmosphere for this song.

Music Industry Impact

Overall, "As Tears Go By" had a big impact on music by showing that rock bands could explore deeper emotions. It was a commercial success and helped the Rolling Stones reach greater heights.

Rolling Stones Tears Go By Summary

Despite its sad title and mood, "Rolling Stones Tears Go By" leaves you with an appreciation for life's little moments. It's a reminder to enjoy the beauty in everyday life.

In summary, "The Rolling Stones As Tears Go By" is a significant song in the Rolling Stones' history. It's known for its emotional lyrics and melody, and it shows the band's versatility. It has remained popular over the years and is a great song for guitar players to learn.