Over My Head (Cable Car)

How to play Over My Head (Cable Car) by The Fray on guitar

These are the sounding chords. With a capo on fret 1 you play C, Em, D, G, Am, Cm and more, the shapes the player above shows.

This song is a great one to learn because it has a strong, steady drive and a memorable progression that feels emotional without being too busy. You get a clean, flowing groove at about 120 BPM, so it rewards relaxed timing and even changes. Once it locks in, it feels smooth and satisfying to play.

The chart uses barre shapes throughout, so the main challenge is keeping your fretting hand relaxed while moving between the shapes cleanly. The opening run of C# - Fm - D# - G# is the change to watch most closely, since it sets the pattern for the rest of the song. Aim for tidy transitions and let each chord ring clearly.

Start by practicing the opening progression slowly until the shape changes feel automatic. Then add a steady strum at a comfortable pace and focus on staying even through each bar. When that feels solid, bring it up toward the full tempo and keep the motion light and consistent.

Use the play-along above to follow each chord change in time with the music, or learn the shapes first with the chord diagrams below.