A Horse With No Name Tablature for Easy Guitar Playing

“A Horse with No Name” is a classic folk rock song by the band America, originally released in 1971. Its distinctive, haunting melody and simple chord progression have made it a favorite for guitarists of all skill levels.

Learning this song on guitar is a great way to improve fingerpicking skills and chord transitions while capturing the song’s evocative mood.

This guide will take you through the tablature, chords, and playing tips to master “A Horse with No Name.” Whether you’re a beginner or an intermediate player, the breakdown below will help you understand the song structure and nuances required for an authentic rendition.

Understanding the Song Structure

The song is built around two primary chords that repeat in a cyclic progression throughout most of the piece. It relies heavily on a rhythmic strumming pattern that creates the hypnotic feel of the song.

The simplicity of the chord progression allows the player to focus on dynamics and timing, which are essential to conveying the song’s atmosphere.

“The beauty of ‘A Horse with No Name’ lies in its minimalism — a simple chord progression that evokes a vast desert landscape.”

Chord Progression Overview

The song primarily uses two chords:

e|--0--
B|--2--
G|--0--
D|--2--
A|--2--
E|--0--
                

e|--2--
B|--0--
G|--2--
D|--0--
A|--x--
E|--2--
                

Detailed Chord Diagrams

Below are the finger positions to play the two chords used throughout the song.

Tablature for “A Horse with No Name”

Below is the main riff tablature for the intro and verse sections. This riff is repeated throughout much of the song, emphasizing the hypnotic rhythm.

e|---------------------0---------------------0---------------------0---------------------0----|
B|--------0-----------------0-----------------0-----------------0-----------------0------------|
G|-----0--------0--------0--------0--------0--------0--------0--------0--------------------------|
D|--2-----------------0-----------------2-----------------0-------------------------------------|
A|--2-------------------------------------2------------------------------------------------------|
E|--0-----2-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

This riff combines the Em6 and D6add9/F# chords in a fingerpicked pattern. Notice the alternating bass notes on the 6th and 5th strings, which add a subtle movement to the otherwise static chord progression.

Playing Tips for the Riff

• Use your thumb to alternate between the bass notes on the 6th and 5th strings.
• Fingers index, middle, and ring can pluck the higher strings in sequence.
• Maintain a steady rhythm — the song’s feel depends on consistent timing and a gentle touch.
• Practice slowly at first, then gradually increase your speed to match the original recording.

Strumming Pattern

If fingerpicking is not your style, you can also strum the chords using a simple down-up pattern. The key is to keep the strumming fluid and relaxed.

This pattern repeats with each chord change, giving the song its signature flowing motion.

Lyrics and Chord Placement

Below is an example of the lyrics with chord placement to help you combine singing and playing. The chords change every measure, typically on the downbeat.