G
C
D
D7
Wabash Cannonball
Boxcar Willie
The original "Wabash Cannonball" is a classic American folk song, popularized by artists like Boxcar Willie. Its traditional style is well-suited to straightforward strumming and open chords, making it an excellent choice for beginners.
## Chords
This version uses four basic chords: G, C, D, and D7. All are open chords and commonly used, so they're perfect for practicing transitions.
## Strumming Pattern
A simple strumming pattern works well. Try: D-D-U-U-D-U (Down-Down-Up-Up-Down-Up) for each measure. Keep your strumming relaxed to capture the folk/train rhythm.
## Chord Transitions
Practice switching between G and C smoothly, as they appear frequently next to each other. For D and D7, keep your index finger anchored on the second fret of the third string; just move your other fingers to transition quickly.
## Tips
1. Play slowly at first, focusing on clean chord changes.
2. Use a capo on the second fret if you want a higher pitch, but it's optional.
3. For the instrumental sections, play one round of the chord progression, using the same strumming.
4. To mimic the train feel, accentuate the beats slightly on the first and third strums.
With practice, you'll capture the lively, rolling feel of the original folk tune.
Intro
G C D D7 G
Verse 1From the great AtlanticG ocean to the wide PacificC shore
To theD green ol' flowin' mountain by the south built by theG shore
Hear the mighty rush of theG engine hear the lonesome hobo'sC call
We'reD riding through to Dixie on theD7 Wabash CannonG ball
Verse 2Our Eastern states areG dandy so the people alwaysC say
FromD New York to St. Louis and Chicago by theG way
From the hills of Minnesota where the rippling watersC fall
NoD changes can be taken on theD7 Wabash CannonG ball
ChorusWell listen to theG jingle the rumble and theC roar
As sheD glides along the woodland by the hills and by theG shore
Hear the mighty rush of theG engine hear that lonesome hobo'sC call
We'reD travelin' though the jungle on theD7 Wabash CannonG ball
InstrumentalG C D D7 G
Verse 3She rolled intoG Birmingham one cold DecemberC day
As sheD pulled into the station you could hear all the peopleG say
There's a gal out there fromG Texas, she's long and she'sC tall
D She's a combination on theD7 Wabash CannonG ball
ChorusWell listen to theG jingle the rumble and theC roar
As sheD glides along the woodland by the hills and by theG shore
Hear the mighty rush of theG engine hear that lonesome hobo'sC call
We'reD travelin' though to Dixie on theD7 Wabash CannonG ball
Verse 4Well here's to DaddyG Claxton may his name foreverC stand
AndD always be remembered throughout this greatG land
Is earthly race isG over and we'll bury him to theC drawl
And we'llD carry him up to Heaven on theD7 Wabash CannonG ball
OutroWe'reD ridin' though the jungle on theD7 Wabash CannonG ball