Swing Low, Sweet Chariot guitar chords
A spiritual from before 1872, built on the first three chords you learn.
At a glance
- Key G
- Time 4/4
- Level Easy
- Chords G, C, D
Why this song is worth learning
A spiritual built on three easy chords with a memorable melody. It is a good first song for practising a clean, steady strum while you sing.
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
| Chorus | G | G | C | G | G | Em | D | D |
|---|---|
| Verse | G | G | C | G | G | D | G | G |
Each group is one bar. Count 4 beats per bar.
Strumming pattern
D DU D 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 clearly.
- Add Em for the lines that need it.
- Play D DU D DU on each chord, one chord per bar.
- Play at 100 beats per minute and sing along to keep the pace.
Tips that matter
- Sing the chorus. Singing helps you hear the change points.
- Keep it steady. A calm strum suits the spiritual.
Questions about Swing Low, Sweet Chariot
What chords are in Swing Low, Sweet Chariot?
G, C and D, all in the key of G major.
What time signature is Swing Low, Sweet Chariot 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 Swing Low, Sweet Chariot free to learn and share?
Yes. African-American spiritual documented before 1872 and in the public domain. The arrangement on this page is Fretwork's own.