Whiskey in the Jar guitar chords
A traditional Irish song with a chorus built for singing along.
At a glance
- Key G
- Time 4/4
- Level Improver
- Chords G, Em, C, D
Why this song is worth learning
A traditional Irish song with four chords and a lively rhythm. It is a good step up because it moves between major and minor chords.
The chords, as shapes
| Chord | Frets (low E to high e) |
|---|---|
| G | 3 2 0 0 0 3 |
| Em | 0 2 2 0 0 0 |
| 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 | Em | Em | C | G | D | G |
|---|---|
| Chorus | G | G | Em | Em | C | G | D | 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, Em, C and D.
- Play D DU DU DU on G, then on Em, C and D.
- Practise the change from G to Em.
- Play at 100 beats per minute and keep the strum driving.
Tips that matter
- Keep it driving. The song has a lot of energy, so keep the strum firm.
- Change early. Think of the next chord before the bar ends.
Questions about Whiskey in the Jar
What chords are in Whiskey in the Jar?
G, Em, C and D, all in the key of G major.
What time signature is Whiskey in the Jar in?
4/4, with four beats per bar. It is rated Improver.
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 Whiskey in the Jar free to learn and share?
Yes. Traditional Irish song dating to the 1700s, in the public domain. The arrangement on this page is Fretwork's own.