Song Tabs
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EADGBEX Am
EADGBEXX Dm
EADGBE E
EADGBE F
EADGBE C
EADGBE E7
Other songs by Traditional
Wellerman Traditional

 "Wellerman" is a traditional New Zealand folk song (sea shanty) that became famous through viral online performances. Its singalong nature and repetitive structure make it ideal for beginner guitarists.

Chords Used

Am, Dm, E, E7, F, C

  • All chords are open and beginner-friendly. Practice switching between Am, Dm, and E/E7, as these transitions occur frequently.
  • F can be tricky for beginners; try the easier mini-barre version (covering only the top four strings at the first fret).

Strumming Pattern

A steady, simple strumming pattern suits the shanty feel. Try:

Down, Down-Up, Down, Down-Up

  • Keep a moderate tempo and emphasize the first beat of each bar for a rhythmic, marching feel.
  • If you’re struggling, just use all downstrokes until you feel comfortable.

Chord Transitions and Tips

  • Practice moving from Am to Dm and back, as this occurs at nearly every line.
  • E7 appears at the end of the chorus; use your second and first fingers for a quick switch from C or F.
  • In the chorus, move smoothly through F, C, Dm, and Am. Take it slow at first.

Techniques for Beginners

  • Mute unused strings with your palm or fingers to keep chords clean.
  • Sing along to help with timing and chord changes.
  • Play along with recordings to internalize the rhythm and chord progression.
EADGBEX Am
EADGBEXX Dm
EADGBE E
EADGBE F
EADGBE C
EADGBE E7
Verse 1
ThereAm once was a ship that put to sea and theDm name of the ship was theAm Billy o' Tea
The winds blew hard her bow dipped downE blow me bully boysAm blow
 Chorus
F Soon may theC Wellerman come toDm bring us sugar andAm tea and rum
F One day when theC tonguin' is done we'llE7 take our leave andAm go
 Verse 2
SheAm had not been two weeks from shore whenDm down on her aAm right whale bore
The captain called all hands and swore he'dE take that whale inAm tow
 Chorus
F Soon may theC Wellerman come toDm bring us sugar andAm tea and rum
F One day when theC tonguin' is done we'llE7 take our leave andAm go
 Verse 3
Before theAm boat had hit the water theDm whale's tail cameAm up and caught her
All hands to the side harpooned and fought herE when she dived down beAm low
 Chorus
F Soon may theC Wellerman come toDm bring us sugar andAm tea and rum
F One day when theC tonguin' is done we'llE7 take our leave andAm go
 Verse 4
NoAm line was cut no whale was freed theDm Captain's mind wasAm not on greed
But he belonged to the whaleman's creed sheE took that ship inAm tow
 Chorus
F Soon may theC Wellerman come toDm bring us sugar andAm tea and rum
F One day when theC tonguin' is done we'llE7 take our leave andAm go
 Verse 5
ForAm forty days or even more theDm line went slack thenAm tight once more
All boats were lost there were only four butE still that whale didAm go
 Chorus
F Soon may theC Wellerman come toDm bring us sugar andAm tea and rum
F One day when theC tonguin' is done we'llE7 take our leave andAm go
 Verse 6
AsAm far as I've heard the fight's still on theDm line's not cut and theAm whale's not gone
The Wellerman makes his regular call to enDm courage the CaptainAm crew and all
 Chorus
F Soon may theC Wellerman come toDm bring us sugar andAm tea and rum
F One day when theC tonguin' is done we'llE7 take our leave andAm go
 Instrumental
F C Dm Am
F C E Am
Final Chorus
F Soon may theC Wellerman come toDm bring us sugar andAm tea and rum
F One day when theC tonguin' is done we'llE7 take our leave andAm go
Other songs by Traditional