Song Index Songs by Chords Guide to Guitar Chords About
You Ain't Goin' Nowhere Nitty Gritty Dirt Band

 "You Ain't Goin' Nowhere" is a classic folk-rock song most famously recorded by the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band and originally written by Bob Dylan. The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band version is known for its laid-back country vibe and straightforward chord progressions, making it ideal for beginners.


Chords and Progression

The entire song uses just three open chords: G, Am, and C. These are among the easiest chords for new players. The progression repeats throughout verses, choruses, and instrumental sections, so once you master the pattern, you can play the whole song.


Strumming Pattern

Stick with a simple down-down-up-up-down-up (D-D-U-U-D-U) pattern for a steady, folk feel. Play gently to match the relaxed mood. Beginners can simplify to just downstrokes or down-up strumming until comfortable.


Chord Transitions

Practice moving between G, Am, and C slowly, focusing on keeping your strumming hand going even if your fretting hand takes a moment to catch up. Try to minimize finger movement and keep your fingers close to the fretboard for smoother changes.


Additional Tips

Count four beats per chord and listen to the original recording to get a feel for the groove. During instrumental breaks, play the same chord pattern as the intro. Singing while playing can help with timing, but start by mastering the chords and strumming first.

EADGBE G
EADGBEX Am
EADGBE C
Intro
G Am C G
G Am C G
Verse 1
Clouds so swift,Am rain won't lift, theC gate won't close, theG railin's froze
Get your mind offAm wintertime,C You ain't goin' noG where
Chorus
Whoo-ee,Am ride me high, toC morrow's the day myG bride's gonna come
Oh oh, areAm we gonna fly,C down in the easyG chair
Verse 2
Buy me a flute, and aAm gun that shoots,C tailgates,G substitutes
Strap yourself to aAm tree with roots,C You ain't goin' noG where
Chorus
Whoo-ee,Am ride me high, toC morrow's the day myG bride's gonna come
Oh oh, areAm we gonna fly,C down in the easyG chair
Instrumental
G Am C G
G Am C G
Verse 3
Well I don't care how manyAm letters they sent, TheC mornin' came and theG mornin' went
Pack up your money,Am pick up your tent Dylan,C You ain't goin' noG where
Chorus
Whoo-ee,Am ride me high, toC morrow's the day myG bride's gonna come
Oh oh, areAm we gonna fly,C down in the easyG chair
Verse 4
Genghis Khan heAm could not keep,C all his men, supG plied with sleep
We'll climb that hill noAm matter how steep,C when we get upG to it
Chorus
Whoo-ee,Am ride me high, toC morrow's the day myG bride's gonna come
Oh oh, areAm we gonna fly,C down in the easyG chair
Outro Chorus
Whoo-ee,Am ride me high, toC morrow's the day myG bride's gonna come
Oh oh, areAm we gonna fly,C down in the easyG chair
Outro
G Am C G
G Am C G
G Am C G
G Am C G