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You Ain't Goin' Nowhere The Byrds

 The Byrds’ version of "You Ain't Goin' Nowhere" is a classic folk-rock arrangement, originally written by Bob Dylan. Their rendition features jangly acoustic guitar and a relaxed, singalong feel, making it ideal for beginner guitarists.

Chords and Progression

This song uses only three chords: G, Am, and C.
These are basic open chords that are beginner-friendly. Practice moving smoothly between G, Am, and C, as the song cycles through them repeatedly.

Strumming Pattern

A simple and effective strumming pattern is:
Down, Down-Up, Up-Down-Up
Try to keep your wrist loose for a relaxed, flowing rhythm.

You can also use a steady downstroke on each beat for a more straightforward approach if you’re new to strumming.

Tips for Beginners

  • Start slowly, making sure each chord rings clear.
  • When transitioning from G to Am to C, keep your fingers close to the fretboard to make changes quicker.
  • Practice the intro progression ([G] [Am] [C] [G]) as a warm-up.
  • Play along with the recording to get a feel for the tempo and groove.

This song is perfect for building confidence with chord changes and playing in a group setting. Enjoy the easygoing vibe and sing along!

EADGBE G
EADGBEX Am
EADGBE C
Intro
G Am C G
Verse 1
G Clouds so swift, theAm rain won't lift, theC gate won't close, theG railing's froze
Get your mind offAm wintertime,C You ain't goin' noG where
Chorus
Whoo-ee,Am ride me high, toC morrow's the day myG bride's gonna come
Oh oh, areAm we gonna fly,C down in the easyG chair
Verse 2
G I don't care how manyAm letters they sent, TheC morning came, theG morning went
Pack up your money,Am pick up your tent,C You ain't goin' noG where
Chorus
Whoo-ee,Am ride me high, toC morrow's the day myG bride's gonna come
Oh oh, areAm we gonna fly,C down in the easyG chair
Instrumental
G Am C G G Am C G
Verse 3
G Buy me a flute, and aAm gun that shoots,C tailgates,G substitutes
Strap yourself to theAm tree with roots,C You ain't goin' noG where
Chorus
Whoo-ee,Am ride me high, toC morrow's the day myG bride's gonna come
Oh oh, areAm we gonna fly,C down in the easyG chair
Verse 4
G Now Genghis Khan, heAm could not keep,C all his kings, supG plied with sleep
We'll climb that hill, noAm matter how steep,C when we get upG to it
Chorus
Whoo-ee,Am ride me high, toC morrow's the day myG bride's gonna come
Oh oh, areAm we gonna fly,C down in the easyG chair
Outro
Whoo-ee,Am ride me high, toC morrow's the day myG bride's gonna come
Oh oh, areAm we gonna fly,C down in the easyG chair