Learning Midland's breakout country hit Drinkin' Problem on guitar is straightforward once you grasp its classic honky-tonk chord progression and steady, driving rhythm. Released in 2016 by the neo-traditional country trio Midland, the song reached double-platinum status by blending 1970s acoustic warmth with modern vocal harmonies. If you want to play it accurately, you need the right key, a simple chord chart, and a feel for the acoustic groove that drives the track.
The original recording sits in the key of D Major, though many solo performers transpose it or use a capo depending on their vocal range. The core progression relies on standard open chords: D, G, and A, with a touch of Bm to capture the melancholy tone of the chorus. Let's break down the exact chord shapes, structural sections, and strumming mechanics you need to nail every version of this modern classic.
Core Chords and Tuning Setup
Standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E) works perfectly for Drinkin' Problem. You don't need drop tunings or complex jazz voicings. The song's emotional core comes from the contrast between major chords and the minor relative chord (Bm), which mirrors the bittersweet narrative of drowning sorrows.
Here are the primary chord shapes used in the key of D:
- D Major (D): Place your index finger on the 2nd fret of the G string, your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the B string, and your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the high E string. Strum from the D string down.
- G Major (G): Place your middle finger on the 3rd fret of the low E string, index finger on the 2nd fret of the A string, and your ring or pinky finger on the 3rd fret of the high E string.
- A Major (A): Line up your index, middle, and ring fingers across the 2nd fret on the D, G, and B strings respectively, keeping the high E open or muted.
- B Minor (Bm): Barre the 2nd fret across all strings with your index finger, then use your ring finger on the 4th fret of the A string and pinky on the 4th fret of the D string.
If barre chords give your hand fatigue, you can substitute a mini-barre for the Bm or use an acoustic simulator pedal, but mastering the full bar shape keeps the bass notes sounding authentic. For reference on artist styling and official background, you can check out Billboard's artist archive for details on Midland's production history.
Verse and Chorus Chord Progressions
The song follows a classic country song structure: a gentle verse setting up the scene, followed by a soaring chorus that opens up the vocal melody.
The Verse Progression
The verses move at a relaxed, swaying 3/4 or slow 4/4 country shuffle pace. You're essentially walking between the tonic (D) and the subdominant (G), creating a lonesome, reflective mood.
- Line 1: D ... G ...
- Line 2: D ... A ...
- Repeat as the lyrics describe the daily routine of pouring a drink to cope with heartbreak.
Keep your strumming subdued during the verses. Let each chord ring out for a full measure, emphasizing the downbeats with a soft thumb-pick or the flesh of your thumb if you're playing fingerstyle.
The Chorus Progression
When the song hits the chorus, the energy lifts. This is where the emotional weight peaks, driven by tight three-part harmonies in the original recording.
- Line 1: D ... Bm ...
- Line 2: G ... A ...
- Line 3: D ... G ...
- Line 4: D ... A ... D
The introduction of the Bm chord on the second line of the chorus is crucial. It creates a brief moment of tension before resolving back to the warm G and A triad. Don't rush this section; give the Bm chord a full, clean strum so the minor tonality registers clearly.
Strumming Patterns and Rhythm Dynamics
Midland's recording relies heavily on acoustic guitars laying down a crisp, rhythmic foundation. To replicate that country swing without a full band, use a modified root-strum pattern.
- The Basic Pattern: Down, Down-Up, Up-Down-Up.
- Bass Note Emphasizis: On beat one, hit the lowest root string of your chord (the D string for D, low E string for G and Bm, A string for A) before executing the rest of the downward brush.
If you're playing around a campfire or in an open mic setting, a steady alternating bass note (root-fifth-root-fifth) adds instant authenticity. For instance, on the D chord, alternate your bass pick between the D string (4th string) and the A string (5th string).
To check official sheet music arrangements and licensing details, you can visit Musicnotes for verified transcription charts.
Transposing and Playing Alternative Versions
Because every singer has a different vocal register, you might find the original D Major key too high or too low. Midland themselves have performed acoustic stripped-down versions on radio tours that utilize different capos.
- Key of G (Capo 2): If you place a capo on the 2nd fret and play out of G shapes (G, C, D, Em), you get the exact same intervals with a slightly brighter acoustic timbre. This shape is often easier for beginners who struggle with the Bm barre chord, replacing it with the much simpler Em shape.
- Key of C (No Capo): Using C, F, G, and Am drops the pitch down significantly, making it ideal for deeper baritone vocals.
When adapting these versions, pay attention to how the bass line moves. Changing keys alters the open strings available for hammer-ons and pull-offs, which are signature flourishes in country acoustic playing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even experienced guitarists make a few predictable errors when learning country tunes like this one.
- Rushing the Tempo: Drinkin' Problem is a mid-tempo shuffle. Playing it too fast strips away the brooding, honky-tonk atmosphere. Keep a metronome locked around 72 to 76 BPM when practicing.
- Muting the High E String on D: When strumming the D major chord, make sure your ring finger isn't accidentally muting the high E string on the 2nd fret. That open or cleanly fretted high note gives the chord its brightness.
- Ignoring Dynamics: If you strum the verses with the same aggressive force as the chorus, the emotional arc of the song flattens out. Build your volume gradually as you approach the chorus.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the easiest way to play the Bm chord in this song?
If you can't manage the full barre chord, you can play a four-string mini-barre by barring the top four strings on the 2nd fret with your index finger and placing your middle finger on the 3rd fret of the B string. Avoid strumming the low E and A strings.
What time signature is Drinkin' Problem written in?
The song is written in 4/4 common time, but it features a distinct triplets-feel or slow swing groove that gives it that classic country rolling rhythm.
Can I play this song on an electric guitar?
Yes. While the studio version features prominent acoustic guitars, the lead riffs and rhythm work translate easily to a clean electric guitar with a touch of spring reverb and compression to capture that vintage 70s Nashville sound.
Do I need a capo to play along with the original track?
No capo is required if you play the open chords in the key of D Major (D, G, A, Bm). A capo is only necessary if you want to shift the chord shapes to match a different vocal range.
