Barbara Allen guitar chords
A ballad written down in 1666, still sung four centuries later.
At a glance
- Key Am
- Time 3/4
- Level Improver
- Chords Am, C, G, Em, F, D
Why this song is worth learning
A traditional ballad in three-time that moves between minor and major chords. The chords change more often than in most first songs, so it is good practice at holding a steady rhythm through changes.
The chords, as shapes
| Chord | Frets (low E to high e) |
|---|---|
| Am | x 0 2 2 1 0 |
| C | x 3 2 0 1 0 |
| G | 3 2 0 0 0 3 |
| Em | 0 2 2 0 0 0 |
| F | 1 3 3 2 1 1 |
| D | x x 0 2 3 2 |
x means do not play that string, 0 means play it open. Tap any shape on the page to hear it.
Play along
Press play. The track counts you in, clicks the beat and lights up the chord you should be holding. Drop the tempo while you are learning and raise it once you can get through without stopping.
Chord order
| Verse | Am | C | G | Am | Am | F | G | Am |
|---|---|
| Verse 2 | Am | Em | C | G | Am | F | E | Am |
Each group is one bar. Count 3 beats per bar.
Strumming pattern
Fingerpick or single strums
D is a down-strum and U is an up-strum. If the pattern feels like too much at first, play one down-strum per bar until the chord changes are comfortable, then add the rest.
How to learn it
- Learn Am, C and G first, since they form the core of the verse.
- Add Em, F and D once the move from Am to C feels easy.
- Practise each change once per bar, counting three beats.
- Play the verse at 96 beats per minute, then sing along to keep the timing.
Tips that matter
- Use single strums. Strum fewer strings and let each chord ring to match the ballad's mood.
- Give yourself the full bar. Most bars hold one chord, so you have time to switch.
Questions about Barbara Allen
What chords are in Barbara Allen?
Am, C, G, Em, F and D, all in the key of A minor.
What time signature is Barbara Allen in?
3/4, with three beats per bar, a waltz feel. It is rated Improver.
How fast should I practise it?
The play-along is set to 96 beats per minute. Start slower while you learn the changes, then raise the tempo in small steps once you can play through without stopping.
Is Barbara Allen free to learn and share?
Yes. Traditional ballad documented as early as 1666 and in the public domain. The arrangement on this page is Fretwork's own.