How to Play "Both Sides Now" — Joni Mitchell Guitar Lesson
Both Sides Now is one of Joni Mitchell's most enduring songs — a piece that rewards guitarists who take the time to learn it properly. The chord voicings are richer than a basic strumming version, and the arrangement reflects Joni's unique approach to acoustic guitar. In this free lesson, Simon Morel breaks it down in a way that's faithful to the original and genuinely playable.
Watch the Free Lesson
Full lesson — no sign-up required.
What This Lesson Covers
Simon works through the song section by section, starting with the foundational chord shapes and how they connect. The lesson covers the verse, the chorus and the distinctive harmonic movements that make this song so memorable. He also addresses the right-hand approach — how to get the strumming pattern to sit correctly under the melody — so the song sounds full.
Chords and Skills You'll Need
Both Sides Now uses a mix of colourful voicings and a special Joni tuning that give it that Joni Mitchell sound. Players with a few months of experience can tackle it chord by chord. Simon makes the arrangement accessible without stripping away what makes the song special.
Get the Chart and Tab
TThe chart for this lesson is available on Patreon alongside Simon's Joni Mitchell acoustic guitar lesson collection containing other great Joni tunes like Case of You, River and Big Yellow Taxi.
Want to Learn Songs Like This in Private Lessons?
Joni Mitchell's guitar style is genuinely worth studying — she uses open tunings, unusual voicings, and a picking approach that has influenced guitarists across folk, rock and jazz. If you want to understand what she's doing and apply it to your own playing, a private lesson is the place to dig in.
$125/hr · All levels · Adults · Petersham studio or online