Polly Wolly Doodle guitar chords
A fast, cheerful two-chord song that makes chord changes feel like a game.
At a glance
- Key G
- Time 4/4
- Level Easy
- Chords G, D
Why this song is worth learning
A lively folk song built on just two chords. It is one of the simplest ways to practise a bouncy strum and a quick change between G and D.
The chords, as shapes
| Chord | Frets (low E to high e) |
|---|---|
| G | 3 2 0 0 0 3 |
| 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 | D | D | G | G | D | G |
Each group is one bar. Count 4 beats per bar.
Strumming pattern
D D DU D
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 and D, and make sure both ring clearly.
- Play D D DU D on each chord.
- Practise the change from G to D several times.
- Play at 100 beats per minute and sing along to keep the beat.
Tips that matter
- Bounce it. The strum should feel light and bouncy.
- Keep the change quick. With two chords, the goal is a clean, quick switch.
Questions about Polly Wolly Doodle
What chords are in Polly Wolly Doodle?
G and D, all in the key of G major.
What time signature is Polly Wolly Doodle 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 Polly Wolly Doodle free to learn and share?
Yes. American minstrel-era song, in print by 1880 and in the public domain. The arrangement on this page is Fretwork's own.