Free Fallin

"Free Fallin'" by Tom Petty, released in 1989, is a three-chord song built around a single suspension trick: A to Asus4 to A. The chord progression is F-Bb-C (or capo 3 with D-G-A shapes, which is the easier version). The song became famous partly because of how easy it is to play.

The Chords (Capo 3)

With capo on the 3rd fret, the chord shapes are open and easy:

• D major
• G major
• A major
• Asus4 (D-shape variation)

The verse: D-G, repeated. The chorus: D-G-A-A. The famous suspension is on the A chord, where the pinky hammers onto the 3rd fret of the B string and back off.

Without Capo

If you skip the capo, the chords become F-Bb-C, all of which are barre chords. Capo 3 is dramatically easier.

The A-Asus4 Hammer

The signature move: hold an A major chord. Hammer your pinky onto the 3rd fret of the B string (turning A into Asus4). Pull the pinky off (back to A). Repeat.

The hammer-pull pattern happens every two beats, creating a constant pulse that makes the song bounce.

The Strumming Pattern

Down-down-up-up-down-up at about 84 BPM. The chord changes are slow (each chord lasts a full bar), but the suspension trick adds rhythmic interest.

Common Mistakes

• Skipping the capo. The barre version is hard for no good reason. Use capo 3.
• Not doing the suspension hammer. The A-Asus4 trick is the song. Without it, the song sounds like an exercise.
• Tempo rushing. About 84 BPM. Don't speed up.

FAQ: Free Fallin' Questions

What capo does "Free Fallin'" use?

Capo on the 3rd fret. The chord shapes become D-G-A.

What's the chord progression?

F-Bb-C in the original key. With capo 3, D-G-A.

Is "Free Fallin'" easy?

Yes, with capo. Three chords and a simple hammer-on trick.

What's the famous riff?

The A-Asus4 hammer-on, repeated throughout the chorus. Hold an A chord, hammer the pinky onto the 3rd fret of the B string, pull off, repeat.

Can I play this song with no capo?

Yes, with barre chords (F-Bb-C). The capo version is much easier and sounds the same.