“Campfire songs” evoke images of cozy evenings with friends, guitars in hand, singing familiar tunes. These songs are the heart of communal music-making, simple enough to learn and enjoyable for everyone to join in. “House of the Rising Sun” perfectly fits this description, a timeless melody with a rich history that resonates with generations. Whether you’re gathered around a crackling fire or simply jamming indoors, this song is a must-know for any guitarist.
Unraveling the History of a Ballad
“House of the Rising Sun” isn’t just a catchy tune; it’s a narrative woven from the threads of folk tradition. Its origins are debated, adding to its mystique, but it’s generally agreed to be rooted in early 20th-century American folk music, possibly even tracing back to older European ballads. Early recordings, such as Clarence Ashley and Gwen Foster’s “Rising Sun Blues” from 1933 and Woody Guthrie’s 1941 rendition, showcase its Appalachian folk and bluesy interpretations.
The song gained mainstream popularity in the 1960s with The Animals’ iconic rock version. Their rendition propelled “House of the Rising Sun” to international fame, introducing its haunting melody and cautionary lyrics to a broader audience. However, beyond the Animals, many artists have interpreted this classic, each bringing their unique flavor. Josh White’s solo version offers a brooding intimacy, while The Weavers, with Ronnie Gilbert, presented a jazzy, three-part harmony arrangement. Exploring these different versions reveals the song’s versatility and enduring appeal.
Simple Guitar Tabs for a Timeless Tune
For guitarists, “House of the Rising Sun” is appealing due to its relatively straightforward chord progression, especially in simplified arrangements suitable for campfire settings. This version focuses on open and first position chords, making it accessible for beginner and intermediate players alike. The chords used are Am, C (with a G bass), D (with an F# bass), and F (barre chord), creating a descending bass line (A, G, F#, F) that adds a melodic depth to the accompaniment. Basic open C and E chords are also incorporated.
Here’s a simplified chord sequence you can follow:
Verse 1:
Am There is a house in C/G New Orleans,
They call the D/F# Rising F Sun,
Am And it’s been the C/G ruin of many a poor E boy,
Am And God, I know I’m E one.
[Repeat for subsequent verses]
This chord progression is repeated throughout the song, making it easy to memorize and focus on your strumming or picking patterns.
Mastering the 6/8 Time Signature
“House of the Rising Sun” is written in 6/8 time, a time signature that might be new to some guitarists. In 6/8 time, each measure has six eighth notes, counted as “One, two, three, four, five, six.” It has a different feel compared to common 4/4 time, often described as a lilting or waltz-like rhythm, though faster 6/8 can also feel driving and powerful.
To get comfortable with the 6/8 feel, listen to recordings of the song and try counting along. Playing along with a recording, like The Animals’ version, is a great way to internalize the rhythm and timing. You can start slowly and gradually increase the tempo as you become more confident.
Strumming and Picking Techniques
The provided guitar arrangement encourages experimentation with different playing styles. You can use a flatpick to alternate between strums and single notes, as demonstrated in the original transcription. For beginners, straight strumming across the chords is perfectly acceptable and effective. Alternatively, fingerpicking patterns can add a more intricate and folk-like texture to your performance. Experiment with different techniques to find what sounds best and what you enjoy playing most. The beauty of campfire songs lies in their adaptability and personal touch.
Bring this Classic to Your Next Jam Session
“House of the Rising Sun” is more than just a song; it’s a piece of musical history and a staple in the campfire song repertoire. With these guitar tabs and playing tips, you can add this timeless classic to your skills and impress your friends at the next gathering. Its simple yet evocative melody and poignant lyrics are sure to captivate listeners, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. So grab your guitar, learn these chords, and bring the haunting beauty of “House of the Rising Sun” to life.
