John Henry guitar chords
The hammer-swinging ballad, and a great song for building a strong strum.
At a glance
- Key G
- Time 4/4
- Level Improver
- Chords G, C, D
Why this song is worth learning
A work ballad with a driving rhythm, built on three chords. It is a good way to practise a steady, powerful strum that keeps the beat moving.
The chords, as shapes
| Chord | Frets (low E to high e) |
|---|---|
| G | 3 2 0 0 0 3 |
| C | x 3 2 0 1 0 |
| 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 | G | G | C | C | G | G | D | G |
|---|---|
| Chorus | G | G | C | C | G | D | G | G |
Each group is one bar. Count 4 beats per bar.
Strumming pattern
D DU DU DU (driving)
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 G, C and D until each one rings cleanly.
- Play D DU DU DU on G, then C and D with the same strum.
- Practise the change from D back to G.
- Play at 100 beats per minute and keep the strum driving through every bar.
Tips that matter
- Drive the beat. The strum should feel forceful but even.
- Count four. Four beats per bar help the changes land cleanly.
Questions about John Henry
What chords are in John Henry?
G, C and D, all in the key of G major.
What time signature is John Henry in?
4/4, with four beats per bar. It is rated Improver.
How fast should I practise it?
The play-along is set to 100 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 John Henry free to learn and share?
Yes. Traditional American work ballad from the 1800s, in the public domain. The arrangement on this page is Fretwork's own.