Song Index Songs by Chords Guide to Guitar Chords About
You Are My Sunshine Norman Blake

 "You Are My Sunshine" is a classic American folk song, often performed with a bright and simple arrangement. Norman Blake's version is straightforward and approachable, making it an excellent choice for beginners.

Chords
The song uses only four open chords: G, C, and D. These are common beginner chords. Practice switching smoothly between them, as the transitions happen frequently, especially between G and C.

Strumming Pattern
A simple down-down-up-up-down-up pattern works well, but even steady downstrokes (one per beat) can sound good. Focus on keeping the rhythm steady rather than playing fast.

Chord Changes & Tips

  • For the G to C change, keep your ring finger anchored on the 3rd fret of the B string (if using a four-finger G) to make the transition easier.
  • The D chord comes up mostly at the end of lines and leads back to G. Practice the D to G transition, as that's a common movement in the song.

Techniques

  • Let each chord ring out, especially during the instrumental sections.
  • If you’re comfortable, try a bass note strum: hit the root note of the chord (lowest string), then strum the rest.

Summary
Stay relaxed, play slowly at first, and focus on smooth transitions. Singing along can help with timing. This song is perfect for building confidence with basic chords and rhythm.

EADGBE G
EADGBEXX D
EADGBE C
Intro
G G D G
Verse 1
The other night dear asD I layG sleeping, I dreamed IC held you in myG arms
But when IC woke dear I was misG taken, And I hung myD head and IG cried
Chorus
You are my sunshine my only sunshine, You make meC happy when skies areG gray
You'll neverC know dear how much IG love you, Please don't take myD sunshine aG way
Instrumental
G G G C G G C G G D G
Verse 2
I'll always love you andD make youG happy, if you willC only say theG same
But if youC leave me and love aG nother, you'll regret itD all someG day
Chorus
You are my sunshine my only sunshine, You make meC happy when skies areG gray
You'll neverC know dear how much IG love you, Please don't take myD sunshine aG way
Instrumental
G G G C G G C G G D G
Verse 3
You told me once dear youD reallyG loved me, And noC one could come beG tween
But now you'veC left me to love aG nother, You have shatteredD all of myG dreams
Chorus
You are my sunshine my only sunshine, You make meC happy when skies areG gray
You'll neverC know dear, how much IG love you, Please don't take myD sunshine aG way
Instrumental
G G G C G G C G G D G
Verse 4
In all my dreams dear youD seem toG leave me, When I aC wake my poor heartG pains
So when youC come back and make meG happy, I'll forgive dear I'llD take all theG blame
Chorus
You are my sunshine my only sunshine, You make meC happy when skies areG gray
You'll neverC know dear how much IG love you, Please don't take myD sunshine aG way
Outro
G D G G