“Streets of Laredo” stands out as a timeless folk ballad, easily adaptable for guitar and perfect for group sing-alongs. Rooted in the Irish ballad “The Unfortunate Rake” from the late 1700s, this song exemplifies how folk tunes evolve, crossing continents and cultures, morphing into familiar melodies like “Cowboy’s Lament.” Its narrative of a cowboy’s poignant demise resonates across generations, making it a staple in folk music.
The beauty of “Streets of Laredo” lies in its simplicity, especially for guitarists. Often requiring just four chords – the foundational I, IV, and V chords, with an added V/V (or II) for harmonic color – it’s an ideal choice for beginners and seasoned players alike. This arrangement, set in the guitar-friendly key of C major, utilizes C (I), G (V), F (IV), and D (II) chords. For those seeking a richer sound, substituting G7 for the G chord adds a seventh, achieved by fretting the F note on the 1st string, 1st fret. This minor alteration introduces a bluesy flavor, enhancing the song’s emotional depth without increasing complexity.
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To accompany the melody, two basic 3/4 (waltz time) patterns are highly effective. The first involves a bass note on the downbeat followed by two eighth-note strums on beats two and three. This pattern provides a rhythmic foundation, easy to maintain while singing. Alternatively, explore arpeggiated fingerpicking or flatpicking. By sustaining each chord shape, pluck individual notes in eighth-note sequences. For fingerpicking, use the thumb for bass notes and index and middle fingers for higher strings. Flatpickers can employ down and upstrokes that feel intuitive. Arpeggiation adds a delicate, flowing texture, enriching the song’s accompaniment.
“Streets of Laredo”, with its accessible chord progression and adaptable arrangements, is more than just a song; it’s a gateway to understanding folk music and guitar playing. Whether around a campfire or in a practice room, mastering these guitar chords opens up a world of musical storytelling. Its enduring appeal confirms its place as a must-learn for anyone exploring Guitar Chords For Songs.
This article draws inspiration from the May/June 2019 issue of Acoustic Guitar magazine.
