G
G7
C
F
The Purple People Eater
Sheb Wooley
"The Purple People Eater" by Sheb Wooley was a novelty hit in 1958, known for its upbeat tempo and playful lyrics. The original has a bouncy, rock and roll feel that can be recreated easily with basic open chords on the guitar.
Chords and Progression
This song uses just four chords: C, G7, F, and G.
C is the main chord, with G7 often used for transitions, and F appearing occasionally.
Practice switching smoothly between C, G7, and F: these are common beginner chords, but moving to F can be tricky. Try to minimize finger movement and use the "mini F" (xx3211) if the full barre F is difficult.
Strumming Pattern
A simple, steady strumming pattern works well:
Down, down-up, up-down-up
Keep the rhythm light and bouncy to match the playful mood. If you’re comfortable, you can use a swing feel (slightly uneven eighth notes) for a more authentic sound.
Tips for Beginners
- Practice the G7 to C change: This move happens frequently, especially at the end of each chorus line.
- Keep your strumming hand moving: Even if you miss a chord, stay in rhythm.
- Sing along: The melody and lyrics are fun and help with timing.
- Start slow: Speed up as you get confident with the chord changes.
Enjoy playing this catchy classic!
Intro
G G7
Verse 1Well IC saw the thing comin' out of the sky, it had theG7 one long horn,C one big eye
I commenced to shakin' and IF said "ooh-eee," itG looks like a purple peopleG7 eater toC me
ChorusIt was aC one-eyed one-horned flyin' purple people eater
G7 One-eyed one-horned flyin' purple people eater
AC one-eyed one-horned flyin' purple people eater
G7 Sure looks strange toC me
Verse 2Well heC came down to earth and he lit in a tree, I saidG7 Mr. Purple People EaterC don't eat me
I heard him say in aF voice so gruff, I wouldn't eat you 'cause you're so tough
ChorusIt was aC one-eyed one-horned flyin' purple people eater
G7 One-eyed one-horned flyin' purple people eater
AC one-eyed one-horned flyin' purple people eater
G7 Sure looks strange toC me
Verse 3I saidC Mister Purple People Eater what's your line? He saidG7 Eatin' purple people and itC sure is fine
But that's not the reason that IF came to land, I wanna get a job in a rock and roll band
ChorusWellC bless my soul rock and roll flyin' purple people eater
G7 Pigeon-toed under-growed flyin' purple people eater
C We wear short shorts friendly little people eater,G7 what a sight toC see
Verse 4And then heC swung from the tree and he lit on the ground, and heG7 started to rock, reallyC rockin' around
It was a crazy ditty with aF swingin' tune, Sing a boop-boop a-boopa lopa lum bam boom
ChorusWellC bless my soul rock and roll flyin' purple people eater
G7 Pigeon-toed under-growed flyin' purple people eater
C I like short shorts flying purple people eater,G7 what a sight toC see
Verse 5Well heC went on his way and then what do ya know? IG7 saw him last night on aC TV show
He was blowing it out reallyF knockin' em dead, playin'G7 rock and roll music through the horn in his head
OutroF C F C