“Streets of Laredo,” also known as “Cowboy’s Lament,” is a timeless American folk song with roots stretching back to the late 18th-century Irish ballad, “The Unfortunate Lad.” This song’s journey across continents and cultures highlights the fascinating evolution of folk music. Made famous by artists like Johnny Cash, Joan Baez, and Chet Atkins, “Streets of Laredo” is particularly appealing to guitarists due to its simple yet evocative chord progression. It’s an excellent choice for anyone looking to expand their repertoire of Acoustic Guitar Chords and is especially well-suited for group sing-alongs or campfire sessions.
The beauty of “Streets of Laredo” lies in its accessibility. Often played using just four basic chords, it’s a fantastic tune for beginner guitarists to learn and master fundamental acoustic guitar chords. The version presented here is conveniently in the key of C major, utilizing the common C (I), G (V), F (IV), and D (II) chords. These acoustic guitar chords are foundational in many genres, making this song a valuable learning tool. For those seeking a touch of harmonic variation, substituting a G7 chord for the standard G can add a richer, bluesier flavor – simply add your first finger to fret the first fret of the high E string while playing a G chord.
To accompany this classic, two straightforward rhythmic patterns in 3/4 waltz time are provided. The first pattern involves picking the root note of the chord on the first beat of the measure, followed by down-up strumming on the second and third beats. This creates a steady, driving rhythm perfect for sing-alongs. Alternatively, you can explore an arpeggiated approach, either with fingerpicking or a flat pick. By sustaining each chord shape, pluck the individual notes of the chord in a flowing eighth-note rhythm. If fingerpicking, use your thumb for the bass notes and your index and middle fingers for the higher strings. If using a pick, experiment with downstrokes and upstrokes to find what feels most natural and comfortable.
Learning “Streets of Laredo” is more than just mastering a song; it’s about understanding how a few basic acoustic guitar chords can unlock a world of musical possibilities. Its simple structure and rich history make it an engaging and rewarding piece to learn, enhancing your skills and appreciation for acoustic guitar music.
