On Top of Old Smoky guitar chords
A traditional mountain ballad in three-beat time.
At a glance
- Key G
- Time 3/4
- Level Easy
- Chords G, C, D
Why this song is worth learning
An Appalachian ballad in three-time built on three easy chords. It is a good way to practise the waltz pattern on a song with a clear melody.
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 | C | 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.
- Use the root note of each chord on beat one.
- Play at 96 beats per minute and count three per bar.
Tips that matter
- Waltz it. Keep the bass on one and the strum on two and three.
- Stay relaxed. A gentle strum suits the ballad's pace.
Questions about On Top of Old Smoky
What chords are in On Top of Old Smoky?
G, C and D, all in the key of G major.
What time signature is On Top of Old Smoky 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 On Top of Old Smoky free to learn and share?
Yes. Traditional Appalachian ballad, in the public domain. The arrangement on this page is Fretwork's own.