Spaceman - Harry Nilsson | Song Tabs

Spaceman Harry Nilsson

The original "Spaceman" by Harry Nilsson features a whimsical, pop-rock vibe with a bouncy rhythm. Its straightforward chords and structure make it accessible for beginner guitarists.

Chord Progressions and Transitions
The main chords are G, C, D, A, and F. The song cycles through these, with the verses moving between G and F, and choruses centering on C, G, and D. Beginners might find the F chord challenging; try playing an easier F (xx3211) or use a capo to simplify if needed. Practice switching cleanly between G and F slowly, building up speed as you gain confidence.

Strumming Pattern
The song suits a moderate, steady strumming pattern. Try down-down-up-up-down-up (D D U U D U) for a light, swinging feel. Keep the rhythm bouncy and relaxed, matching the playful mood of the original. For the intro and outro, use one or two strums per chord to set up and close the song gently.

Tips for Beginners

Focus on clean chord changes, especially between G and F.
Mute unused strings lightly with your palm or fingers to avoid unwanted noise.
Listen to the original to internalize the rhythm and phrasing.
If the F barre is too hard, use the easier version or practice barre chords separately.

Enjoy the playful nature of the song and don't worry about perfection—have fun with the groove!

Intro

C C G G G G C C C C G

Opening

G Bang bangG shoot 'em upG destiG ny

A Bang bangA shoot 'em upA to theA moon

D Bang bangD shoot 'em upD one twoD three

Verse 1

IG wanted to be a spaceF man, that's what I wanted toG be

But now that I am a spaceF man, nobody cares aboutG me

Chorus

C Hey Mother Earth won't youG bring me back downD safely to theG sea?

AC round and around and aG round and around isD all she ever say toG me

Verse 2

I wanted to make a goodF run, I wanted to go to theG moon

I knew that it had to beF fun, I told 'em to send me realG soon

I wanted to be a spaceF man, I wanted to be it soG bad

But now that I am a spaceF man I'd rather be back on theG pad

Chorus

C Hey Mother Earth won't youG bring me back downD safely to theG sea?

AC round and around and aG round and around isD just a lot of lunaG cy

Bridge

C Round and around and around and around and aG round

C Round and around and around and around and aD round, safe on theD groundG

Final Chorus

C Hey Mother Earth betterG bring me back downD safely to theG sea

But aC round and around and aG round and around isD all she ever say toG me

Outro

You know I wanted to be a spaceF man, that's what I wanted toG be

But now that I am a spaceF man, nobody cares aboutG me

SayC hey you Mother Earth you betterG bring me back down, I'veD taken just as much as IG can

AC round and around and aG round and around is theD problem of a spaceG man

Ending

C G D G C G D G C G D G

Song Tabs

Songs with the same chords: A + C + D + F + G

Songs with the same chords: A + C + D + F + G