C
D
G
Em
Cmaj7
Blowin' In The Wind
Peter, Paul and Mary
"Blowin' In The Wind" is a classic folk song originally written by Bob Dylan. Peter, Paul and Mary popularized it with their harmonious and gentle acoustic style, making it approachable for guitarists of all levels. Their version emphasizes clear, singable melodies and steady rhythm, ideal for beginners.
Chords
The song uses simple open chords: G, C, Cmaj7, D, and Em. Practice switching between C and Cmaj7 (just lift your index finger off the B string) for smooth transitions.
Strumming Pattern
A basic folk strumming pattern works well:
Down, Down-Up, Up-Down-Up
Keep the strumming light and even, matching the song's gentle mood. If you’re new, focus on steady downstrokes until you’re comfortable.
Tips for Beginners
- Practice chord changes slowly, especially between C, Cmaj7, and D.
- Em is easy from G: just move your fingers down one string each.
- Listen to the original recording to match the tempo and feel.
- Try singing along while playing to internalize the rhythm and chord changes.
- Use a capo on the 3rd fret (optional) to match Peter, Paul and Mary’s key.
With patience and consistent practice, you’ll capture the song’s timeless folk sound.
Intro
C D G Em
C D G
Verse 1How manyC roads must aG man walk down, before youC call him aD man?
G How manyC seas must aG white doveEm sail, beG fore sheC sleeps inCmaj7 theD sand?
G How manyC times must theG cannon balls fly before they'reC foreverD banned?
TheC answer myD friend, isG blowin' in theEm wind, theC answer isD blowin' in theG wind.
Verse 2How manyC years must aG mountain exist, before it isC washed to theD sea?
G How manyC years can someG people exEm ist, beG fore they're aC llowed toCmaj7 beD free?
G How manyC times can aG man turn his head and pretend that heC just doesn'tD see?
TheC answer myD friend, isG blowin' in theEm wind, theC answer isD blowin' in theG wind.
Verse 3How manyC times must aG man look up, before he canC see theD sky?
G How manyC ears mustG one manEm have, beG fore he canC hear peoCmaj7 pleD cry?
G How manyC deaths will itG take till he knows, that too manyC people haveD died?
TheC answer myD friend, isG blowin' in theEm wind, theC answer isD blowin' in theG wind.
OutroOh theC answer myD friend, isG blowin' in theEm wind, theC answer isD blowin' in theC winG d.C G