Neil Diamond’s "Song Sung Blue" is a relaxed, mid-tempo classic with a gentle, singalong feel. The original features a simple arrangement, ideal for beginner guitarists.
Chords & Progression
The song uses open chords: C, G, C7, F, Am, and Dm.
Practice switching smoothly between C, G, and C7, as these transitions occur frequently. For F, use the easy F (xx3211) or barre shape, whichever is comfortable. Am and Dm are straightforward for beginners.
Strumming Pattern
A simple strumming pattern works well:
Down, down-up, up-down-up (D D-U U-D-U)
Keep your wrist relaxed and aim for a light, flowing sound to match the song’s laid-back vibe. Listen to the original for reference.
Tips for Beginners
- Take time with C to G and G to C7 changes.
- For the C7 chord, press down only the first fret of the A string.
- If F is difficult, try just playing the top four strings.
- Keep strumming steady, even if your chord changes are slow at first.
- Use the intro to practice chord changes before singing.
Enjoy playing and singing along, focusing on keeping the groove steady and the mood gentle.
IntroC G C C7 F Am
C G C C7 F Am
C G C C7 F Am
C G C C7 F Am
Verse 1C Song, sung, blue, everybodyG knows one
Song, sung, blue, every gardenC grows oneC7
Me and you, are subject to, theF blues now and then
ButG when you take the blues and make a song, you sing themC out again
Sing 'emDm out aG gain
Verse 2C Song, sung, blue, weeping like aG willow
Song, sung, blue, sleepin' on myC pillowC7
Funny thing, but you can sing it with aF cry in your voice
And beG fore you know it get to feeling good, it simplyC got no choice
InstrumentalC C C G G G G G C C
Verse 3C7 Me and you, are subject to, theF blues now and then
ButG when you take the blues and make a song, you sing themC out again
Verse 4C Song, sung, blue, weeping like aG willow
Song, sung, blue, sleepin' on myC pillowC7
Funny thing, but you can sing it with aF cry in your voice
And beG fore you know it get to feeling good, it simplyC got no choice
OutroC Song, sung, blueG Song, sung, blueC
C7 Funny thing, but you can sing it with aF cry in your voice
And beG fore you know it get to feeling good, it simplyC got no choice