Moves Like Jagger | TAB
Let’s take a look at the finer details of how to play Moves Like Jagger. We’ll start with the original guitar parts before developing the concept further.
To understand the arrangement—when there’s a stop, breakdown, or extra bar—it’s best to consult the lyrics and chords or the chord chart. The chord chart is included in the backing tracks above.
Here’s the chorus shown in TAB:
We’re simply moving the same idea from Bm7 (chord VI) to Em7 (chord II).
The initial hammer-on could be described as a 9sus4, although that may be a bit over the top. Perhaps sus2/4 is more accurate—though iReal Pro doesn’t accept that name. Other possible names include 11, A/B, or D/E.
Then again, since the first chord only lasts for a 16th note, maybe it’s best to just call it Bm7 and Em7!
Next up, here’s the intro/verse part, now with muted strums added—practise this section using the loop in the playlist.
The only change here is the addition of muted strums at the end. This small detail makes a big difference—removing them helps make the chorus feel bigger when it hits.
While it’s great to learn what’s on the original recording, you might also want to make some changes. Here’s example 3, which I really like:
In this version, I’ve moved the Bm chord down the neck so it’s closer to Em7. This does change things—it’s no longer a min7—but I think it works.
Instead of hammering on from the 11 chord, I’m sliding in. For good practice, the example includes muted strums first, then without. Practising both helps build control over when to add them.
Here’s another idea—this one is quite difficult:
I’ve added more strums and muted notes—try it out using the loop!
Finally, let’s look at that iconic hook. It’s based on the B minor pentatonic scale:
Try playing this in all positions. I’ve suggested sliding into the first note; for the second, you can slide or hammer on—experiment with both!
On a final note, try playing the vocal melody as well. It’s all based on the B minor pentatonic—give it a go!
Below, you find all this TAB recorded as little practise loops.
Moves Like Jagger TAB | Related Pages
Moves Like Jagger | Chords + Lyrics
You can learn to play Moves Like Jagger by Maroon 5 and Christina Aguilera using chords, lyrics, chord analysis, a chord chart, and the original recording
| Bm7 | Bm7 | Bm7 | Bm7 |
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