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EADGBEX A
EADGBEXX D
EADGBE E
EADGBE E7
EADGBEX B7
Other songs by Pete Seeger
My Get Up And Go Pete Seeger

 Pete Seeger’s “My Get Up and Go” is a light-hearted folk tune, often played with simple open chords and an easygoing, singalong feel. Seeger’s original features straightforward strumming and a steady tempo, making it accessible for beginners.

Chords and Transitions

The song uses open chords: A, D, E, E7, and B7. All are beginner-friendly. Practice switching smoothly between A, D, and E, as these transitions are most frequent. B7 appears occasionally; take extra time to learn this shape if it’s new.

Strumming Pattern

Aim for a relaxed, even strum such as down-down-up-up-down-up (folk strum). Keep your wrist loose and let the rhythm flow naturally. Alternatively, a simple down-down-down-down pattern works well, especially if you’re just starting out.

Tips for Beginners

  • Intro: Strum the A chord repeatedly in the intro to set the tempo.
  • Chorus: Watch for the quick change between E and E7 before returning to A.
  • Verses: B7 to E may feel awkward at first—practice this transition slowly.
  • Sing along: The melody follows the chord changes closely, making it easier to sing and play together.
  • Tempo: Keep the pace moderate; focus on even strumming and clean chord changes.

Enjoy the cheerful spirit of the song and don’t worry about perfection—folk music is about participation and fun!

EADGBEX A
EADGBEXX D
EADGBE E
EADGBE E7
EADGBEX B7
Intro
A A A A A A
Chorus
D How do I know myA youth is all spent? MyE get up and go hasA got up and went.
But inD spite of it all I'mA able to grin, andE think of the places myE7 get up hasA been.
 Verse 1
NowA old age is goldenE so I've heard said, but sometimes I wonder as IA crawl into bed,
With myD ears in a drawer myA teeth in a cup, myB7 eyes on the table until I wakeE up.
 Verse 2
As theA sleep dims my vision IE say to myself, "Is there anything else I shouldA lay on the shelf?"
But thoughD nations are warring andA business is vexed, I'llE still stick around to seeE7 what happensA next.
 Chorus
D How do I know myA youth is all spent? MyE get up and go hasA got up and went.
But inD spite of it all I'mA able to grin, andE think of the places myE7 get up hasA been.
 Verse 3
When I wasA young myE slippers were red. I could kick up my heels rightA over my head.
D When I was older myA slippers were blue, butB7 still I could dance the whole nightE thru.
 Verse 4
A Now I am older myE slippers are black. I huff to the store and IA puff my way back.
D But don't you laugh IA don't mind at all. I'dE rather be huffing thanE7 not puff atA all.
 Chorus
D How do I know myA youth is all spent? MyE get up and go hasA got up and went.
But inD spite of it all I'mA able to grin, andE think of the places myE7 get up hasA been.
 Verse 5
Now IA get-up in the morning andE dust off my wits. Open the paper andA read the obits.
D If I'm not there IA know I'm not dead, so IE eat a good breakfast andE7 go back toA bed.
 Chorus
D How do I know myA youth is all spent? MyE get up and go hasA got up and went.
But inD spite of it all I'mA able to grin, andE think of the places myE7 get up hasA been.
Other songs by Pete Seeger