Worried Man Blues guitar chords
A traditional blues-folk crossover and a staple of old-time guitar.
At a glance
- Key G
- Time 4/4
- Level Easy
- Chords G, C, D
Why this song is worth learning
A blues song with three easy chords and a bass-and-strum pattern. It is a good way to practise the alternating bass rhythm of country and folk.
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 | C | C | G | G |
|---|---|
| Chorus | G | G | C | C | G | D | G | G |
Each group is one bar. Count 4 beats per bar.
Strumming pattern
Bass - strum, bass - 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 a bass note, then a strum, alternating in each bar.
- Use the root note of each chord for the bass.
- Play at 100 beats per minute and count four beats per bar.
Tips that matter
- Alternate the bass. Bass, strum, bass, strum keeps the rhythm bouncing.
- Keep it relaxed. A loose hand keeps the alternating pattern smooth.
Questions about Worried Man Blues
What chords are in Worried Man Blues?
G, C and D, all in the key of G major.
What time signature is Worried Man Blues 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 Worried Man Blues free to learn and share?
Yes. Traditional American song recorded by the Carter Family in 1930 and in the public domain. The arrangement on this page is Fretwork's own.