G
C
D
Em
Traveller's Prayer
Slim Dusty
Slim Dusty’s “Traveller’s Prayer” is a gentle, folk-influenced song often performed with a simple acoustic arrangement. The original version’s relaxed tempo and heartfelt lyrics make it ideal for beginner guitarists.
Chord Progression
The song uses only five chords: G, C, D, Em, and occasional transitions between them. Learn the open chord shapes for these first. G is the home chord, and most lines start or end with it.
Strumming Pattern
A slow, steady strumming pattern works best. Try a down-down-up-up-down-up (D-D-U-U-D-U) pattern or simply downstrokes for a softer sound. Keep the rhythm even and relaxed, matching the gentle mood of the song.
Chord Transitions
Practice moving smoothly between G, C, and D, as these are frequent. The tricky spot is moving from Em to D or C in the bridge and outro. Focus on finger placement and keep your hand relaxed. Play slowly at first and speed up as you gain confidence.
Additional Tips
Let open strings ring out for a fuller sound, especially on G and C. During the instrumental break, strum gently to maintain the reflective mood. If singing, play quieter during verses and build slightly in the chorus for emotion.
Take your time with chord changes and enjoy the meditative feel of the song!
Intro
G G G G G G G
Verse 1May theG road, rise up toC meet you. May theG wind, be always at yourD back.
May theG sun, shine warm upC on your face, and theG rain, fallD soft, upon yourG tracks.
ChorusAnd unD til, until we meet aG ga-a-ain,
MayD God, hold youC safely in the palm of HisG hand.
Verse 2May theG hills, come down toC greet you. May theG rocks, give shelter in theD storm.
May theG dust, be soft beC neath your feet, and theG dark, giveD rest, before theG dawn.
ChorusAnd unD til, until we meet aG ga-a-ain,
MayD God, hold youC safely in the palm of HisG hand.
BridgeIn the palm of HisC ha-and, in the palm of hisEm ha-and.
In the palm of hisD hand,C safely in the palm of hisG hand.
InstrumentalG C G D G C G D G
Verse 3May yourG life, have manyC memories. May yourG death, be sweet and full ofD peace.
May yourG hope, last an eC ternity, and yourG joy, carryD on and neverG cease.
ChorusAnd unD til, until we meet aG ga-a-ain,
MayD God, hold youC safely in the palm of HisG hand.
And unD til, until we meet aG ga-a-ain,
MayD God, hold youC safely in the palm of HisG hand.
OutroIn the palm of HisC ha-and, in the palm of hisEm ha-and.
In the palm of hisD hand,C safely in the palm of hisG hand.
In the palm of HisC ha-and, in the palm of hisEm ha-and.
In the palm of hisD hand,C safely in the palm of hisG hand.