Song Tabs
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EADGBE G
EADGBE C
EADGBEX A
EADGBEXX D7
EADGBEXX D
When A Cowboy Trades His Spurs For Wings Willie Watson

 This song, featured in "The Ballad of Buster Scruggs," is a classic Western ballad performed by Willie Watson. Its gentle, storytelling nature suits simple acoustic guitar accompaniment, making it accessible for beginners.

Chords Used:
G, C, D, D7, A
All chords are open and beginner-friendly. The transition between G, C, and D7 is especially common in folk and country music.

Strumming Pattern:
A steady, simple strumming pattern works best. Try down-down-up-up-down-up (D DU UDU) per measure. For a more authentic country feel, you can alternate bass notes:

  • On G, strum the 6th string then the rest.
  • On C, strum the 5th string then the rest.
  • On D7, use the 4th string as the bass.

Tips for Beginners:

  • Practice switching between G, C, and D7 slowly at first.
  • Keep your strumming hand relaxed; focus on even rhythm rather than speed.
  • For chord changes (like G to D7), lift fingers together and plant them simultaneously for smoother transitions.
  • The A chord appears briefly; practice switching quickly between G and A.

General Technique:

  • Count four beats per measure.
  • Play the intro and outro softly, and add more dynamics in the chorus for emotional effect.
  • Sing along as you play to keep timing and phrasing natural.

Enjoy the storytelling aspect and don’t rush—this song shines with a relaxed, gentle feel.

EADGBE G
EADGBE C
EADGBEX A
EADGBEXX D7
EADGBEXX D
Intro
G C
Verse 1
Let meG tell you buddy, there's a faster gun,
Comin' over yonder, whenA tomorrowD7 comes.
Let meG tell you buddy, and it won't beC long,
Til youG find yourself singin' yourD7 last cowboyG song.
 Chorus
YippeeD ki-i-ay when theC round-upG ends.
YippeeD ki-i-ay and theC campfireD dims.
YippeeG ki-i-ay, he shouts and heC sings,
When aG cowboy trades hisD7 spurs forG wings.G C
Verse 2
When theyG wrap my body, in the bindlin' sheet,
And they take my six irons pull-the-A boots from myD7 feet.
UnG saddle my pony, she'll be itching toC roam.
I'll beG halfway to heaven, underD7 horsepower o' myG own.
 Chorus
YippeeD ki-i-ay when theC round-upG ends.
YippeeD ki-i-ay and theC campfireD dims.
YippeeG ki-i-ay, he shouts and heC sings,
When aG cowboy trades hisD7 spurs forG wings
 Final Chorus
YippeeD ki-i-ay I'mC gloryG bound.
No moreD jingle jangle I'llC lay my gunsD down.
YippeeG ki-i-ay, he shouts and heC sings,
When aG cowboy trades hisD7 spurs forG wings.G C G C
Outro
When aG cowboy trades hisD7 spurs forG wings.