Yankee Doodle guitar chords
An 18th-century tune and a fast chord-change workout.
At a glance
- Key G
- Time 4/4
- Level Easy
- Chords G, C, D
Why this song is worth learning
A traditional tune with three easy chords and a bouncy rhythm. It is a fun way to practise changes between G, C and D.
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 | C | G | G | C | D | G |
|---|---|
| Chorus | G | C | G | D | G | C | G | 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, C and D until each one rings clearly.
- Play D D DU D on each chord.
- Practise the change from C to G.
- 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. A clean, quick switch makes the tune sound lively.
Questions about Yankee Doodle
What chords are in Yankee Doodle?
G, C and D, all in the key of G major.
What time signature is Yankee 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 Yankee Doodle free to learn and share?
Yes. Traditional tune from the 1700s and in the public domain. The arrangement on this page is Fretwork's own.