Song Tabs
Song Index Songs by Chords Guide to Guitar Chords About
EADGBE G
EADGBE C
EADGBEX Cm
EADGBEX A7
EADGBEXX D7
EADGBE G7
EADGBEX Am
EADGBEXX D
EADGBEX A
Other songs by Traditional
Danny Boy Traditional

 The original "Danny Boy" is an Irish ballad known for its gentle, flowing melody and emotional delivery. It's often performed slowly, allowing the lyrics and melody to shine. This arrangement suits a solo singer-guitarist and works well for beginners.

Chords

Chords used:
G, C, Cm, A7, D7, G7, Am, D, A

Tip: Practice switching between G, C, and D first, as they are the most common. Cm and G7 may be new for beginners; take time to get comfortable with their shapes.

Strumming Pattern

A slow, steady 3/4 (waltz) or 4/4 pattern works well:
Down, down-up, down-up or simply downstrokes for a gentle feel.
Try:
Down (bass note), down-up (chord), down-up (chord) for each measure.

Chord Transitions

  • Watch out for quick changes between C and Cm, and G to Am/D.
  • Practice the move from C to Cm—keep your index finger in place and flatten it for the barre (Cm shape).
  • A7 and D7 often resolve back to G, so listen for the melody cues.

Techniques

  • Let chords ring out; avoid rushing.
  • For emotional impact, use softer strums or light fingerpicking.
  • Pause briefly at the end of each line to match the song’s phrasing.

Enjoy bringing out the heartfelt mood of this classic ballad!

EADGBE G
EADGBE C
EADGBEX Cm
EADGBEX A7
EADGBEXX D7
EADGBE G7
EADGBEX Am
EADGBEXX D
EADGBEX A
Verse 1
Oh DannyG boy, the pipes, theG pipes are callC ingCm .
From glen toG glen, andG down the mountainA7 sideD7 .
The summer'sG gone, andG7 all the roses dyC ingCm .
'Tis you 'tisG you, mustAm go andD I mustG bide.C G
Chorus 1
D ButC comeD7 yeG back,D when sumC mer's, in theG meadow.
D OrC whenD7 theG valD ley'sC hushed, andG white withA snowD .
And I'll beG here in sunC shine or inG shadowCm .
Oh DannyG boy, oh DannyAm boy, ID love youG so.C G
Verse 2
But if youG come, when all theG roses dyC ingCm .
And I amG dead, asG dead I well mayA7 be.D7
You'll come andG find, theG7 place where I am lyC ingCm .
And kneel andG say, an "Am Ave"D there forG me.C G
Chorus 2
D AndC ID7 shallG feel,D tho' softC you tread aG bove me.
D AndC thenD7 myG grave,D willC richer,G sweeterA be.D
For you willG bend andC tell me that youG love meCm .
And I shallG rest in peace unAm til youD come, to,G me.
Oh DannyC boy ID love youG so.
Other songs by Traditional