Song Index Songs by Chords Guide to Guitar Chords About
Ooby Dooby Roy Orbison

 About the Original Song
Roy Orbison’s “Ooby Dooby” is a classic rockabilly song featuring energetic rhythm and simple, catchy chord changes. Its upbeat feel and driving rhythm guitar are central to the original’s charm.

Playing Tips

Chords:
The song uses basic open chords: D, D7, G, G7, and A7. These are all beginner-friendly and appear frequently in rock and roll and country music. Practice transitioning between D and D7, as well as G and G7, since these switches happen quickly.

Strumming Pattern:
Aim for a steady, driving strum, emphasizing beats 2 and 4 for a rockabilly feel. Try a simple down-up (D-U-D-U) pattern, keeping the wrist loose. For extra style, accent the backbeat (up strum) slightly.

Techniques:
Palm muting can help capture the original’s percussive rhythm. Rest the side of your palm lightly on the strings near the bridge while strumming. This adds a chuggy, rhythmic sound.

Transitions:
Watch out for quick moves from D to D7 and G to G7, as well as from A7 back to D or G. Practice these pairs separately if needed. Use your ring finger as a pivot where possible.

General Tips:
Keep the tempo lively. Don’t worry about playing fast at first—accuracy is more important. Gradually speed up as you build confidence. Listen to the original for reference on timing and feel.

EADGBEXX D7
EADGBEXX D
EADGBE G
EADGBE G7
EADGBEX A7
Intro
D7
Verse 1
Well aD hey baby, jump over here when youD do the ooby dooby, ID7 want to be near
OobyG doobyG7 , OobyD dooby
OobyA7 dooby ooby dooby,G Ooby dooby doD wah do wah do wah
Verse 2
Well youD wiggle to the left, youD wiggle to the right
YouD do the ooby dooby withD7 all of your might oobyG doobyG7
OobyD dooby, OobyA7 dooby ooby dooby,G7 Ooby dooby doD wah do wah do wah
Instrumental
D D D7 D D7 G G7 D7 D7 A7 G7 D7 D
D D D D7 G G D D A7 G D
D D D D G G D D A7 G D
D7 D7 D G7 G7 D7 D7 A7 G7 D7 D7
Verse 3
Yeah youD wriggle and you shake like aD big rattlesnake
YouD do the ooby dooby 'till youD7 think you wanna break oobyG doobyG7
OobyD dooby, OobyA7 dooby ooby dooby,G7 Dooby dooby doD wah do wah do wah
Verse 4
WellD you've been struttin' 'cause aD now you know
How toD do the ooby dooby nowD7 baby let's go oobyG doobyG7
OobyD dooby, OobyA7 dooby ooby dooby,G7 Ooby dooby doD wah do wah do wahG A7 D