Song Index Songs by Chords Guide to Guitar Chords About
My Cowboy Song Cowboy Jack Clement

 About the Original
Cowboy Jack Clement was known for his classic country songwriting, and "My Cowboy Song" reflects his signature storytelling style. The original’s gentle, mid-tempo feel and simple arrangement make it approachable for beginner guitarists.

Chords and Progression
The song uses basic open chords: D, G, and A. These are common in country music and are friendly for beginners. Practice transitioning smoothly between these chords, especially from D to G and D to A. Use your third finger as a pivot between D and G to make movement easier.

Strumming Pattern
For a traditional country feel, use a simple “down-down-up-up-down-up” pattern (D-D-U-U-D-U). For absolute beginners, a steady downstroke strum (D-D-D-D) per beat also works, especially during the intro. Maintain an even rhythm to keep the song’s relaxed mood.

Techniques and Tips
Keep your fretting hand relaxed to avoid buzzing or muted notes. Aim to switch chords just before the beat where the new chord falls. Count the beats in each bar; most lines change chords every measure, but some lines hold the chord longer (like the intro).

Sing along as you play to help with timing, especially during chord changes. Practice the chord shapes individually before playing through the song. With repetition, transitioning between D, G, and A will become smoother. Enjoy the storytelling and have fun!

EADGBEXX D
EADGBE G
EADGBEX A
Intro
D D D
D D D
D D D
D D D
Verse 1
D Into the sunset theG old cowboy rides
TheA echo of hoofbeats,G fade with theD light
As he rides down the canyon andG out of my sight
IA picked up my guitar, andG sang to theD night
Chorus
Songwriters and poets haveG told of your life
A Sometimes we're wrong, andG sometimes we'reD right
If I sang you my sad song andG waltzes tonight
A You'd be a cowboy beG fore morning'sD light
Verse 2
If you meet a true cowboy,G then you will know
That heA don't need no saddle, orG dusty oldD clothes
What he needs is some freedom,G space and some time
He'sA always a lookin', for aG mountain toD climb
Chorus
Songwriters and poets we'veG told of his life
A Sometimes we're wrong andG sometimes we'reD right
If I sang you my sad songs andG waltzes tonight
WhyA you'd be a cowboy beG fore morning'sD light