“Norwegian Wood” is a great study in combining single-note picking with light strumming, all while maintaining a steady rhythmic flow. The song is in the key of D and uses a 6/8 time signature, which gives it that gentle, rolling, almost waltz-like feel.
The key to playing it well is keeping your right hand moving continuously, even when you’re switching between picking individual notes and brushing across multiple strings. Think of your hand as maintaining a constant pulse—down-up motion that never stops—while your picking pattern shifts within that motion. This helps keep the rhythm smooth and prevents the part from sounding choppy or disconnected.
When you’re playing the melody notes, let them ring clearly, but don’t lose the underlying groove. As you move into strummed portions, keep them light and controlled so they blend naturally with the picked notes rather than overpower them. The balance between melody and rhythm is what gives the song its character.
Because it’s in 6/8, try counting it as “1-2-3, 4-5-6” or “ONE-two-three, FOUR-five-six.” Let your picking and strumming follow that pulse, with a subtle emphasis on beats 1 and 4. This will help you lock into the feel and avoid rushing.
Overall, focus on fluidity and consistency—your right hand should feel like it’s gliding, not stopping and starting. Once that motion becomes natural, the combination of picking and strumming will fall into place, and the song will start to sound effortless and musical.”
