Man of Constant Sorrow guitar chords
A 1913 Appalachian lament that became a bluegrass standard.
At a glance
- Key G
- Time 4/4
- Level Improver
- Chords G, C, D, Em
Why this song is worth learning
A bluegrass-style folk song with a driving rhythm and four chords. It is a good way to practise a steady, energetic strum.
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 |
| Em | 0 2 2 0 0 0 |
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 | G | G | Em | C | D |
|---|---|
| Chorus | G | C | G | Em | C | D | G | G |
Each group is one bar. Count 4 beats per bar.
Strumming pattern
D DU DU DU
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, D and Em.
- Play D DU DU DU on G, then the same strum on C and D.
- Practise the change from G to Em.
- Play at 100 beats per minute, and keep the strum driving.
Tips that matter
- Keep it driving. Bluegrass-style songs need a steady, forward strum.
- Change with the phrase. Move to the next chord at the start of each line.
Questions about Man of Constant Sorrow
What chords are in Man of Constant Sorrow?
G, C, D and Em, all in the key of G major.
What time signature is Man of Constant Sorrow 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 Man of Constant Sorrow free to learn and share?
Yes. Published by Dick Burnett in 1913 and in the public domain. The arrangement on this page is Fretwork's own.