Song Tabs

 The original version of "Stewball" by Peter, Paul and Mary is a gentle folk ballad, typically performed with acoustic guitar accompaniment. Understanding its relaxed, story-telling feel can guide your approach to playing it.

Chords

The song uses these basic open chords: G, Em, Am, D, and C. All are beginner-friendly.

Strumming Pattern

A simple folk strumming pattern works well:
Down-down-up-up-down-up (DDUUDU),
or just alternating downstrokes and upstrokes (DUDU) for an even simpler approach.
Keep the strumming relaxed and steady to match the song's narrative style.

Chord Transitions

Practice moving between G, Em, Am, D, and C slowly at first.
Most transitions are common and straightforward. For example, G to Em and Em to Am share finger positions that make switching easier. Try to anticipate your next chord and shift your fingers early.

Techniques and Tips

Let the chords ring out, especially on the final G at the end of each verse.
You can add a light palm mute for verses to create dynamic contrast, then strum more openly for the chorus or closing lines.

If you’re struggling with the D to G transition, practice switching between them repeatedly until it feels smooth.
Keep your wrist loose for comfortable strumming.