Oh My Darling, Clementine guitar chords
An 1884 waltz that everybody can sing along to.
At a glance
- Key G
- Time 3/4
- Level Easy
- Chords G, C, D
Why this song is worth learning
A folk song in three-time with three easy chords. It is a friendly introduction to the waltz pattern of bass then strums.
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 | G | D | D | D | G | G |
|---|---|
| Chorus | G | G | C | C | G | D | G | 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, C and D until each rings clearly.
- Play one bass note on beat one, then strum on beats two and three.
- Practise the change from G to D, which comes up often.
- Play at 96 beats per minute and count three per bar.
Tips that matter
- Count three. One bass, two strums; say the count out loud at first.
- Use the root. Play the root note of each chord on beat one.
Questions about Oh My Darling, Clementine
What chords are in Oh My Darling, Clementine?
G, C and D, all in the key of G major.
What time signature is Oh My Darling, Clementine 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 Oh My Darling, Clementine free to learn and share?
Yes. Published by Percy Montrose in 1884 and in the public domain. The arrangement on this page is Fretwork's own.