Pay Me My Money Down guitar chords
A dockworkers' song with an irresistible chorus.
At a glance
- Key G
- Time 4/4
- Level Easy
- Chords G, C, D
Why this song is worth learning
A work song with a steady, driving rhythm built on three chords. It is a good way to practise a strong, even 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 |
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 | G | D | D | G | 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
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 cleanly.
- Play D DU DU DU on each chord, keeping the same pattern.
- Practise the change from G to D.
- Play at 100 beats per minute and keep the rhythm steady.
Tips that matter
- Keep it driving. The song is a rhythm song, so the strum should feel firm.
- Stay even. Keep the up-strums quieter than the down-strums.
Questions about Pay Me My Money Down
What chords are in Pay Me My Money Down?
G, C and D, all in the key of G major.
What time signature is Pay Me My Money Down in?
4/4, with four beats per bar. It is rated Easy.
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 Pay Me My Money Down free to learn and share?
Yes. Traditional Georgia Sea Islands work song, in the public domain. The arrangement on this page is Fretwork's own.