G
D
C
Em
Am
Waltzing Matilda
Slim Dusty
About the Song
"Waltzing Matilda" is an iconic Australian folk song, famously recorded by Slim Dusty. Its simple melody and storytelling style make it a popular choice for singalongs and beginner guitarists.
Chords & Basic Tips
The song uses the following chords: G, D, C, Em, and Am—all common open chords. If you’re new to guitar, practice transitioning between these chords cleanly. Focus especially on moving between G and D, as this transition happens often and quickly in the song.
Strumming Pattern
A classic folk strumming pattern works well here. Try: Down Down Up Up Down Up (D D U U D U) for each bar. Keep your strumming relaxed and steady to match the song’s storytelling mood.
Chord Transitions & Techniques
- Start slowly, especially with the [G]-[D]-[G] changes in the intro and between lines.
- When moving from G to C or G to D, anchor your ring finger if possible to make transitions smoother.
- For the [Em] and [Am] in the chorus, use them as passing chords; don’t linger too long—these add flavor but pass quickly.
- Use light palm muting if you want a more percussive folk feel, but it’s optional.
Final Tips
Practice singing along to help with chord timing. Play at a moderate tempo, and remember: the focus is on telling the song’s story, so enjoy the process and let your playing flow naturally!
Intro
G G D G G G G
Verse 1Once a jollyD swagmanG camped by aC billabong,
G Under the shade of aD coolibah tree.
HeG sang as heD watched andG waited 'til hisC billy boiled:
"G You'll come a-Waltzing MaD tilda withG me."
ChorusWaltzing MatildaC Waltzing Matilda,
G You'll come a-Em Waltzing MaAm tilda withD me.
HeG sang as heD watched andG waited 'til hisC billy boiled:
"G You'll come a-Waltzing MatD ilda withG me."
Verse 2Down came aD jumbuck toG drink at theC billabong.
G Up jumped the swagman andD grabbed him with glee.
HeG sang as heD shoved thatG jumbuck in hisC tucker bag:
"G You'll come a-Waltzing MaD tilda withG me."
ChorusWaltzing MatildaC Waltzing Matilda,
G You'll come a-Em Waltzing MaAm tilda withD me.
HeG sang as heD shoved thatG jumbuck in hisC tucker bag:
"G You'll come a-Waltzing MatD ilda withG me."
Verse 3Up rode theD squatter,G mounted on hisC thoroughbred.
G Up rode the troopersD one two three.
"G With that jollyD jumbuck thatG you've got in yourC tucker bag,
G You'll come a-Waltzing MaD tilda withG me."
ChorusWaltzing MatildaC Waltzing Matilda,
G You'll come a-Em Waltzing MaAm tilda withD me.
G With that jollyD jumbuck thatG you've got in yourC tucker bag,
"G You'll come a-Waltzing youD scoundrel withG me."
Verse 4Up jumped theD swagman, andG sprang into theC billabong.
"G You'll never take me aD live" saidD he.
And hisG ghost may beD heard, as youG pass by thatC bill aC bong:
"G You'll come a-Waltzing MaD tilda withG me."
ChorusWaltzing MatildaC Waltzing Matilda,
G You'll come a-Em Waltzing MaAm tilda withD me.
HisG ghost may beD heard as youG pass by thatC billabong:
"G You'll come a-Waltzing MaD tilda withG me!"
Final ChorusWaltzing MatildaC Waltzing Matilda,
G You'll come a-Em Waltzing MaAm tilda withD me.
HisG ghost may beD heard as youG pass by thatC billabong:
"G You'll come a-Waltzing MaD tilda withG me."
OutroG D G G G D G G G G
"G You'll come aEm Waltzing MaD tilda withG me."