Hank Williams' "Jambalaya" is a classic country song known for its upbeat, Cajun-inspired rhythm and simple, catchy melody. The original features acoustic guitar, making it ideal for beginner players to learn basic chords and strumming.
Chords and Progression
You only need three chords: G, G7, and C.
G to G7 is a simple transition—just add your index finger to the first fret of the high E string (for G7) while holding G.
C is a standard open chord. Practice moving smoothly between G/G7 and C.
Strumming Pattern
A basic country strum works well:
Try a “down, down-up, up, down-up” pattern in 4/4 time.
Alternatively, use a simple “down, down, down, down” for each beat if you’re just starting.
Tips for Beginners
- Start slow to master chord changes, especially from G7 to C.
- Keep your strumming relaxed and light for a bouncy, upbeat feel.
- Play along with the recording to match tempo and feel.
- For the instrumental sections, stick to the chord sequence and keep the same strumming pattern.
This song’s simplicity and repetitive structure make it great for practice and singalongs.
IntroG G7 C
Verse 1Goodbye Joe, me gotta go, me ohG my ohG7
Me gotta go pole the pirogue down theC bayou
My Yvonne, the sweetest one, me ohG my ohG7
Son of a gun we'll have bigG7 fun on theC bayou
ChorusJambalaya and a crawfish pie and a filetG gumboG7
'Cause tonight I'm gonnaG see my ma chez aC mio
Pick guitar, fill fruit jar, and beG gay-ohG7
Son of a gun we'll have bigG7 fun on theC bayou
InstrumentalC G7 G7 C C G7 G7 C
Verse 2The Thibodeauxs, the Fontaineaus, the place isG buzzin'G7
Kinfolk come to see Yvonne by theC dozen
Dress in style, go hog wild, me ohG my ohG7
Son of a gun we'll have bigG7 fun on theC bayou
ChorusJambalaya and a crawfish pie and a filetG gumboG7
'Cause tonight I'm gonnaG see my ma chez aC mio
Pick guitar, fill fruit jar, and beG gay-ohG7
Son of a gun we'll have bigG7 fun on theC bayou
InstrumentalC G7 G7 C C G7 G7 C
ChorusJambalaya and a crawfish pie and a filetG gumboG7
'Cause tonight I'm gonnaG see my ma chez aC mio
Pick guitar, fill fruit jar, and beG gay-ohG7
Son of a gun we'll have bigG7 fun on theC bayou