Song Index Songs by Chords Guide to Guitar Chords About
Heart Of Gold Neil Young

 "Heart Of Gold" is a classic Neil Young song from his 1972 album "Harvest." The original version is driven by acoustic guitar and harmonica, making it ideal for solo performers or singalongs. The laid-back, folk-rock feel is key to capturing its spirit.


Chord Progression and Shapes

The main chords are Em, C, D, and G.
These are all open chords, suitable for beginners. Practice switching between them slowly, focusing on smooth transitions, especially from Em to D and from C to G, as these appear often.


Strumming Pattern

A simple down-down-up-up-down-up pattern fits well,
but you can start with all downstrokes to stay in rhythm. Listen to the original to match the syncopated, gentle strumming. Keep your wrist relaxed and let the rhythm flow naturally.


Playing Tips

- Start slow; use a metronome if needed.
- Let the chords ring; avoid muting strings with your palm.
- For the intro, play Em twice, then D, then Em again.
- During harmonica sections, just play the chords and strum softly.
- For the bridge, emphasize the Em and D changes to give dynamics.


With practice, focus on steady tempo and smooth changes. Sing along if you like—the simplicity of the song is part of its charm!

EADGBE Em
EADGBEXX D
EADGBE C
EADGBE G
Intro
Em Em D Em
Em Em D Em
Harmonica
Em C D G
Em C D G
Em Em C D G
Em Em D Em
Verse 1
I want toC live,D I want toG give
Em I've been aC miner for aD heart ofG gold
Em It's these exC pressions,D I neverG give
Em That keep me searching for aG heart of gold
C And I'm gettingG old
C C C G
Em Keeps me searching for aG heart of gold
C And I'm gettingG old
C C C G
Harmonica
Em Em C D G
Em C D G
Em Em C D G
Em Em D Em
Verse 2
I've been toC Hollywood,D I've been toG Redwood
Em I crossed theC ocean for aD heart ofG gold
Em I've been in myC mind,D it's such aG fine line
Em That keeps me searching for aG heart of gold
C And I'm gettingG old
C C C G
Em Keeps me searching for aG heart of gold
C And I'm gettingG old
C C C G
Harmonica
Em Em C G
Em C D G
Em Em C G
Em Em D Em
Bridge
Em Keep me searching for aD heart ofEm gold
You keep me searching and I'mD growin'Em old
Keep me searching for aD heart ofEm gold
I've been a miner for aG heart of gold
Em AhhhC mmmC mmmC mmmG mmm