G
Bm
C
Em
D
Puff The Magic Dragon
Peter, Paul & Mary
"Puff the Magic Dragon" by Peter, Paul & Mary is a classic folk song known for its gentle melody and storytelling lyrics. The original version features a light, singalong style that suits both solo and group performances.
Chords:
The song uses common open chords: G, Bm, C, Em, and D. Except for Bm (which is a barre chord), the rest are beginner-friendly. If Bm is difficult, you can substitute it with Bm7 (x20202) for an easier grip.
Strumming Pattern:
A simple strumming pattern works well:
Down, Down-Up, Up-Down-Up (D, D-U, U-D-U).
Keep the strumming light and relaxed to match the folk feel. Practice slowly to keep the rhythm steady.
Chord Transitions:
Focus on smooth changes between G and C, as well as G and D, since these happen frequently. For Bm, take your time and place your index finger first when barring. If you use Bm7, transitions will be even easier.
Tips:
Pause briefly at the end of each line for a natural flow. Try humming the melody while you practice chord changes. Playing along with a recording can help maintain timing and improve confidence.
With practice, even beginners can enjoy this timeless song and play it for friends or family!
Intro
G Bm C G C G Em C D G D
Verse 1G Puff the magicBm dragonC lived byG the sea
AndC frolicked in theG autumnEm mist in aC land called HonahD Lee
G Little JackieBm PaperC loved thatG rascal Puff
AndC brought him strings andG sealingEm wax andC otherD fancyG stuffD Oh
ChorusG Puff the magicBm dragonC lived byG the sea
AndC frolicked in theG autumnEm mist in aC land called HonahD Lee
G Puff the magicBm dragonC lived byG the sea
AndC frolicked in theG autumnEm mist in aC land calledD HonahG LeeD
Verse 2ToG gether they wouldBm travel on aC boat with billowedG sail
C Jackie kept aG lookoutEm perched onC Puff's giganticD tail
G Noble kings andBm princes wouldC bow whene'er theyG came
C Pirate ships wouldG lower theirEm flags whenC Puff roaredD out hisG nameD Oh
ChorusG Puff the magicBm dragonC lived byG the sea
AndC frolicked in theG autumnEm mist in aC land called HonahD Lee
G Puff the magicBm dragonC lived byG the sea
AndC frolicked in theG autumnEm mist in aC land calledD HonahG LeeD
Verse 3AG dragon lives forBm ever butC not so littleG boys
C Painted wings andG giants'Em rings makeC way for otherD toys
G One gray night itBm happened JackieC Paper came noG more
AndC Puff that mightyG dragon heC ceased hisD fearlessG roarD
Verse 4HisG head was bent inBm sorrowC green scales fell likeG rain
C Puff no longerG went toEm play aC long the CherryD Lane
WithG out his lifelongBm friendC Puff could not beG brave
SoC Puff that mightyG dragonEm sadlyC slipped inD to hisG caveD Oh
Final ChorusG Puff the magicBm dragonC lived byG the sea
AndC frolicked in theG autumnEm mist in aC land called HonahD Lee
G Puff the magicBm dragonC lives byG the sea
AndC frolicks in theG autumnEm mist in aC land calledD HonahG Lee