"Yellow Submarine" is a classic Beatles song, well-known for its singalong chorus and simple, upbeat feel. The original has a playful, marching rhythm, making it accessible for beginners on guitar.
Chords
The song uses common open chords: G, D, D7, Em, Am, and Cmaj7. Practice switching between G, D, and D7, as these repeat in the chorus. Am and Cmaj7 appear in the verses, and are also beginner-friendly.
Strumming Pattern
A simple, steady strumming pattern works best. Try a basic down-down-up-up-down-up (D-D-U-U-D-U) pattern, or just use all downstrokes for an easy start, especially in the chorus. Aim for a bouncy, even rhythm to match the song’s cheerful vibe.
Chord Transitions and Tips
Practice the transition between D and G, as it appears frequently. For D7, use your index, middle, and ring fingers in an open position, moving smoothly from D. Cmaj7 is similar to C, but leave the first string open.
If strumming feels tricky, slow down and focus on clean transitions. You can also play single downstrokes per chord for the verses and pick up the energy in the chorus.
Final Advice
Sing along as you play to help keep your timing. This song is great for group playing and building confidence with chord changes.
Verse 1In theD town where I wasG born,Em lived aAm man whoCmaj7 sailed toD sea
G And heD told us of hisG life,Em in theAm land ofCmaj7 submarD ines
G So weD sailed on to theG sun,Em till weAm found a sea ofD green
G And weD lived beneath theG waves, in ourAm yellow submarD ine
ChorusG We all live in aD yellow submarine,D7 yellow submarine,G yellow submarine
G We all live in aD yellow submarine,D7 yellow submarine,G yellow submarine
Verse 2And ourD friends are all aG board,Em manyAm more of themCmaj7 live nextD door
G And theD band begins toG play
G Em C D
ChorusG We all live in aD yellow submarine,D7 yellow submarine,G yellow submarine
G We all live in aD yellow submarine,D7 yellow submarine,G yellow submarine
InstrumentalG D D G G Am Am D
G D D G G Am Am D
Verse 3D As we live, a life ofG ease,Em everyAm one of us, hasCmaj7 all weD need
G Sky ofD blue and sea ofG green, in ourAm yellow submarD ine
ChorusG We all live in aD yellow submarine,D7 yellow submarine,G yellow submarine
G We all live in aD yellow submarine,D7 yellow submarine,G yellow submarine
We all live in aD yellow submarine,D7 yellow submarine,G yellow submarine
G We all live in aD yellow submarine,D7 yellow submarine,G yellow submarine