Rosie Strike Back
By Rosanne Cash
Written by Eliza Gilkyson
Album: King's Record Shop (1987)
Tabbed by Larry Mofle
3/11/2025

Capo 2

Intro:  D  A  D  A

D               A
He’s a bruiser, he likes to tease you
Bm            G
He’s a loser, you think he needs you
D                         A                    D    A
You always come back, you always come back for more

He winds up tight, out all night
Been drinkin’ down he’s looking for a fight
He knocks you down; you don’t even know what for


Chorus:
D                  A
Rosie strike back, Rosie strike back
Bm               G
Hit the road and never look back
D                     A                      D    A  G
You can’t suffer your whole life living like that
D          A
Get goin’, don’t pack
Bm                    G
Take the baby and the clothes on your back
D            A             D    A
Keep walking Rosie, strike back

You think he’s changin’, weeks pass
He’s angry, lies coiled like a snake in the grass
The time will come when he takes it all out on you

He throws punches, you bear with him
Don’t take it on you, Rosie, don’t be his victim
You can’t carry the blame for what he’s puttin’ you through

Chorus

Bridge:
D                            A
Don’t take his world on your shoulder
D                              A
Don’t let your heart grow much colder
Bm                               G
There’s people out there who can help you
E7
If you let them help you, hey, Rosie

Chorus