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Mr. Tambourine Man – Classic favourites

Written by the great Bob Dylan, this classic was released in 1965. The Byrds also released their version of the song in 1965, and this lesson is broadly based on their version. We look at the short...

Jolene – Country Classics

Learn how to strum along to this great country song. Written by the great Dolly Parton, Jolene was released in 1973 and went on to become one of the best loved songs in her impressive catalogue. It is...

Hard Times Come Again No More – Folksongs Popular in Ireland

Written by Stephen Foster, this American folksong was written over 170 years ago! The song is very popular in Ireland and Irish artists who have recorded the song include Tommy Fleming and Mary Black...

Farewell to Carlingford – Folksongs popular in Ireland

Written by Tommy Makem in the late 60’s, this is an easy song to play along to and to learn, with just 4 chords and an easy strum pattern. A popular version was recorded by Luke Kelly and the...

Tennessee Waltz – Popular Country Sing-alongs

A 75 year old country classic this time! We look at the song in 2 keys, C and G, and study the lovely chord progressions in both keys. We use a “pick-strum” accompaniment and suggest an...

As I Rover Out – Songs Popular in Ireland

Just 3 simple chords to play this traditional song. Ideal song to work on you strumming. I recommend listening to Christy Moore and Planxty’s version – appreciate the musicianship!...

Schooldays Over – Folksongs popular in Ireland

Written by the great Ewan McColl, this folksong has been recorded by several Irish artists. I based this lesson on the version recorded by Luke Kelly and The Dubliners...

The Dying Rebel – Irish Ballads and Folksongs

This rebel song tells the story of a man finding a wounded rebel during the 1916 Dublin Rising. I’m playing the song in 3/4 time, using a simple strum pattern. It’s in the key D, with just...

Bad Moon Rising – Classic sing-along songs

One of Creedence Clearwater Revival’s greatest hits, Bad Moon Rising was written by John Fogerty and released in 1969. We look at how to play the distinctive strum pattern of the verses. The...