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!
IntroG Am C G
Verse 1G 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
ChorusWhoo-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 2G 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
ChorusWhoo-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
InstrumentalG Am C G G Am C G
Verse 3G 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
ChorusWhoo-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 4G 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
ChorusWhoo-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
OutroWhoo-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