The Old Rugged Cross

This is not an LDS hymn, but it is beloved by other Christians, especially Protestants, all over the world. I learned this version from Jeff Moore, who is not a Christian, and does not even believe in God, but Boy! can he play Gospel music! This one will make people weep. Play it slowly, with LOTS of expression, and don't be shy with the tremolo. Study guide is included with the tab. If you're not familiar with the tune, a really great vocal by Brad Paisley, with guitar accompaniment, can be found HERE. I especially like this ACOUSTIC GUITAR SOLO, too (tablature available at www.graytoney.com). But perhaps my version is closest to Chet Atkins's version, or would be if you played it with an organ, a string bass, and a rhythm guitar backup!

This song does require you to play artificial harmonics. They are not really any harder to play than regular harmonics, but you play them with one hand, while fretting the string with the left hand. They are easy to do if you rest the right index finger lightly on the string, exactly twelve frets above the fretted note, then pluck the string with the ring finger, allowing the index finger to come off the string at the same time. With a little practice, you can achieve a gorgeous, bell-like tone, exactly one octave higher than the fretted note.