Learning how to play "Drinking Problem" by Midland gives you a masterclass in modern country storytelling paired with classic, laid-back Texas country instrumentation. Released in 2016 as the lead single from their debut album On the Rocks, the track quickly became a radio staple. It draws heavily on classic 1970s and 1980s countrypolitan influences, featuring lush harmonies and a slow, swinging 6/8 time signature that makes it an absolute joy to play on an acoustic guitar.
If you want to nail the vibe of this track without getting bogged down by complicated jazz-inflected country theory, you are in the right place. This guide breaks down the exact chords, strumming patterns, and vocal timing you need to capture that smooth, melancholy barroom atmosphere.
Understanding the Core Chords and Progression
The song is built around a straightforward chord progression that fits the classic country template. To play along with the original recording in the key of G Major, you only need four open chords: G, C, D, and Em.
If you prefer to use a capo to match a different vocal range or want to use simpler shapes, you can easily transpose the song, but learning the open G Major version gives you the authentic resonance of the studio track. Let's look at the four shapes you need to master.
- G Major (3-2-0-0-3-3): The home base of the song. Make sure your ring finger and pinky are locked solidly onto the high B and E strings on the third fret.
- C Major (x-3-2-0-1-0): A clean transition chord that creates the bridge between the tonic and the subdominant. Keep your thumb relaxed over the top of the neck to avoid muting the low E string.
- D Major (x-x-0-2-3-1): Keep this shape crisp and avoid strumming the low E and A strings.
- Em (0-2-2-0-0-0): A minor chord that introduces a hint of emotional weight during the transition into the chorus.
The Verse and Chorus Structure
The progression remains remarkably steady throughout the track. Most of the song relies on a cycle moving between G, C, and D, with minor variations when hitting the pre-chorus.
When you transition from G to C, keep your ring finger anchored on the third fret of the high E string if you use a three-finger G chord. This tiny trick adds a subtle country drone effect, bridging the two chords smoothly just like the steel guitar does in the background. Practice switching slowly between G and C until your hand muscle memory takes over.
Strumming Pattern and Rhythm
One common mistake players make when tackling this song is forcing a standard 4/4 rock strum. "Drinking Problem" moves in a swaying 6/8 compound meter. It has a triplet feel—think of a slow waltz or a gentle back-and-forth rocking motion.
Instead of a frantic strumming hand, focus on a heavy downbeat followed by lighter upward and downward sweeps that emphasize beats one and four.
Try this basic rhythmic blueprint:
- Down (accented), Down-Up, Down (accented), Down-Up.
- Keep your wrist completely loose. The secret to country rhythm guitar is letting the bass note ring out clearly on the first beat before filling in the middle with the higher strings.
- If you are playing solo acoustic, lightly palm-mute the bridge just a fraction to capture that muted, thump-style Nashville tone.
Step-by-Step Song Walkthrough
To put everything together, let's walk through how the song flows from the opening lines through to the final fade-out.
1. The Intro
The song opens with a distinctive, weeping electric guitar riff. On acoustic, you can emulate this by arpeggiating the open G chord or holding a sustained G while gently picking out the individual notes of the melody. Let the chords breathe. Do not rush the tempo.
2. The Verses
The verses set up the narrative perspective of a small-town character nursing a glass while people talk. Play the underlying progression at a lazy, unhurried pace.
- Chord flow: G – C – G – D
- Keep your vocals relaxed, dropping into a conversational tone rather than belting out the notes.
3. The Chorus
This is where the song opens up emotionally. The vocal harmonies soar, and your guitar strumming should open up slightly to match the dynamic shift.
- Chord flow: G – Em – C – D
- Emphasize that minor chord transition on the second beat to highlight the melancholy lyric line.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even though the chords are beginner-friendly, nailing the authentic country feel requires avoiding a few classic traps.
- Playing too fast: This isn't a bluegrass burner. Keep the metronome dialed down to around 65-70 beats per minute. If you rush, it loses that smoky, late-night barroom atmosphere.
- Ignoring bass notes: When playing an open G or C chord, pay attention to which string you hit on the downbeat. Striking the root bass note (the low E for G, the A string for C) right on the beat anchors the whole rhythm section.
- Strumming too aggressively: Country rhythm is about texture and pocket. Think of your acoustic guitar as part of the percussion, locking in tight with an imaginary bass player and drummer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I play this song using simpler beginner chords?
Yes. If standard barre or open chords feel tricky, you can place a capo on the second fret and use shape variations in C Major (C, F, G, Am), which makes the fingering much easier for absolute beginners.
What is the exact tempo of the original recording?
The track clocks in at approximately 68 beats per minute. This slow tempo gives the vocal delivery its signature drawl and space.
Do I need an electric guitar to make it sound right?
Not at all. While the studio version features lush pedal steel and electric guitar licks, a single acoustic guitar using a steady bass-strum pattern sounds complete and captures the core songwriting craft.
How do I get that classic country twang on an acoustic?
Try using medium-light gauge strings and pick closer to the bridge. You can also experiment with a flatpick rather than fingerpicking to get a sharper, more percussive attack on the wound strings.
