G
Bm
Em
D
Em7
C
D7
A
Mr. Bojangles
Nitty Gritty Dirt Band
"Mr. Bojangles" by the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band is a classic folk song known for its storytelling and gentle, flowing rhythm. The original features acoustic guitar with a relaxed, expressive style, making it approachable for beginners.
Chords:
The song uses open chords: G, Bm, Em, Em7, C, D, D7, and A.
Tip: Spend time practicing the transition between G, Bm, and Em, as these recur frequently.
Strumming Pattern:
A simple folk strum works well:
Down, Down-Up, Up-Down-Up
Play gently to match the song’s reflective mood. Try muting with the palm for a softer sound.
Chord Transitions:
- Bm can be tricky as it’s a barre chord. If difficult, try the Bm7 (x20202) as a temporary substitute.
- For Em to Em7, just lift your ring finger (Em: 022000, Em7: 020000).
- D7 is a quick change from D (D: xx0232, D7: xx0212). Practice sliding your fingers between these.
Techniques:
Let the chords ring out, especially during the chorus. Add light fingerpicking or occasional arpeggios for variety once comfortable.
Practice Tips:
- Break the song into verses and choruses when learning.
- Slow down tough sections, especially where D, D7, and C are grouped closely.
- Sing along to keep track of changes and phrasing.
Enjoy the expressive, storytelling nature of the song and focus on smooth, relaxed playing.
Intro
G Bm Em D
Verse 1IG knew a man BoBm jangles and heEm danced for youEm7 C in worn outD shoesD7
G Silver hair andBm ragged shirt andEm baggy pantsEm7 C The old softD shoeD C
He jumped soBm high, he jumped soEm highEm7 A And then he lightly touchedD downD D7
Verse 2IG met him in aBm cell in New OrEm leans I wasEm7 C down andD outD7
HeG looked to me toBm be, theEm eyes of ageEm7 C as the smoke ranD outD C
He talked ofBm life, talked ofEm lifeEm7 A He laughed clicked his heels andD steppedD D7
Verse 3HeG said his name BoBm jangles and heEm danced a lickEm7 C across theD cellD7
HeG grabbed his pants andBm feathered stance 'fore heEm jumped so highEm7 C
And then he clicked hisD heelsD C He let go aBm laugh, he let go aEm laughEm7 A
Shook back his clothes all aD round
ChorusEm Mister BoD janglesD Em Mister BoD janglesD
Em Mister BoD jangles,G danceBm Em G Em Bm
Verse 4HeG danced for those atBm Minstrel shows andEm county fairsEm7 C throughout theD southD7
HeG spoke through tears ofBm fifteen years how hisEm dog and himEm7 C traveled aD boutD C
The dog up andBm died, he up andEm diedEm7 A After twenty years he stillD grievedD D7
Verse 5HeG said "I dance now atBm every chance inEm honky tonksEm7 C for drinks andD tipsD7
ButG most the time IBm spend behind theseEm county barsEm7 C cuz I drinks aD bit"D C
He shook hisBm head, and as he shook hisEm headEm7 A I heard someone ask himD pleaseD7
ChorusEm Mister BoD janglesD Em Mister BoD janglesD
Em Mister BoD jangles,G danceBm Em G Em Bm G