Molly Malone guitar chords
Dublin's own song, built on a four-chord loop that repeats throughout.
At a glance
- Key G
- Time 3/4
- Level Easy
- Chords G, Em, Am, D, C
Why this song is worth learning
A song in three-time with five chords that move smoothly through the key. It is a good way to practise bass-and-strum playing on a melody many people know.
The chords, as shapes
| Chord | Frets (low E to high e) |
|---|---|
| G | 3 2 0 0 0 3 |
| Em | 0 2 2 0 0 0 |
| Am | x 0 2 2 1 0 |
| D | x x 0 2 3 2 |
| C | x 3 2 0 1 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 | Em | Am | D | G | Em | A | D |
|---|---|
| Chorus | G | Em | Am | D | G | Em | D | G |
Each group is one bar. Count 3 beats per bar.
Strumming pattern
Bass - strum - strum
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, Em, Am, D and C, one at a time.
- Play one bass note on beat one, then strum on beats two and three.
- Practise the move from G to Em, a common change in this song.
- Play at 96 beats per minute and count three beats per bar.
Tips that matter
- Bass on one. Land the bass note on beat one; the strum follows.
- Stay light. Keep the strum soft so the melody stands out.
Questions about Molly Malone
What chords are in Molly Malone?
G, Em, Am, D and C, all in the key of G major.
What time signature is Molly Malone in?
3/4, with three beats per bar, a waltz feel. It is rated Easy.
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 Molly Malone free to learn and share?
Yes. Published in 1883 and in the public domain. The arrangement on this page is Fretwork's own.