Fact Check: What Are the Real Chords to Bella Kay's the Sick?
By David Miller
The heart of "The Sick" moves through a cyclical four-chord loop with deliberate rhythmic pauses. Rather than basic beginner shapes, the track employs rich, modern open voicings:
- Em7: 0-2-2-0-3-3
- Cadd9: x-3-2-0-3-3
- G: 3-2-0-0-3-3
- D/F#: 2-0-0-2-3-3 (wrap your left thumb lightly over the neck to fret the 6th string, 2nd fret)
In the verse, the progression lingers on the Em7 and Cadd9 to build narrative tension. When the chorus arrives, the energy shifts into a driving, percussive pulse that hits the G and D/F# with heavier pick attack. Because fingers three and four remain anchored on the 3rd fret across all four shapes, the transitions are swift and physically effortless, making this an ideal beginner acoustic guitar tab while preserving professional-grade harmonic color.
| Song Section | Online Scraper Tabs (Incorrect) | Verified Studio Voicings (Capo 2) | Voicing Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Verse | F#m, D, A, E (Barre shapes) | Em7, Cadd9, G, D/F# | Maintains ringing B and E anchor strings; softer dynamic bed |
| Pre-Chorus | Bm, D, E, E | Am7, Cadd9, Dsus4, D | Suspended fourth creates melodic anticipation heading into the hook |
| Chorus | F#m, D, A, C#m | Em7, Cadd9, G, D/F# | Anchors the low bass notes to match acoustic kick drum pulses |
| Bridge | D, E, F#m, A | Cadd9, D, Em7, G/B | Inverted G/B lifts vocal accompaniment chords into a higher register |
David Miller brings 15 years of experience in global economics, personal finance strategy, and market dynamics. He specializes in turning complex economic trends into actionable insights for everyday readers.
