“Wagon Wheel” by Old Crow Medicine Show (popularized by Darius Rucker) is a song that resonates with audiences of all ages. Its catchy melody, relatable lyrics about travel and longing, and sing-along chorus make it a staple around campfires, at parties, and in casual jam sessions. If you’re looking to learn this classic tune on guitar, you’ve come to the right place. This guide provides you with easy-to-follow guitar chords and tabs to get you strumming “Wagon Wheel” in no time.
The Simple Charm of Wagon Wheel Chords
One of the reasons “Wagon Wheel” is so beloved by guitarists, especially beginners, is its straightforward chord progression. The entire song is built around just four basic chords: G, D, Em (E minor), and C. These are fundamental chords that are often among the first learned by anyone picking up the guitar. This simplicity allows you to focus on rhythm and getting the strumming pattern down, rather than struggling with complex chord shapes.
Here are the chords you’ll need to know:
- G Major (G)
- D Major (D)
- E Minor (Em)
- C Major (C)
If you’re new to guitar, there are countless online resources and apps that can show you how to finger these chords. Once you have these shapes under your fingers, you’re ready to tackle “Wagon Wheel.”
Wagon Wheel Chords and Lyrics Breakdown
Let’s break down the song section by section with the chords above the lyrics to guide you.
Verse 1:
G D
Headed down south to the land of the pines
Em C
And I’m thumbin’ my way into North Caroline
G D C C
Starin’ up the road And pray to God I see headlights
G D
I made it down the coast in seventeen hours
Em C
Pickin’ me a bouquet of dogwood flowers
G D C C
And I’m a hopin’ for Raleigh so I can see my baby tonight So
Chorus:
G D
Rock me mama like a wagon wheel
Em C
Rock me mama anyway you feel
G D C C
Heeeey, mama rock me
G D
Rock me mama like the wind and the rain
Em C
Rock me mama like a south-bound train
G D C C
Heeeey, mama rock me
Verse 2:
G D
Runnin’ from the cold up in New England
Em C
I was born to be a fiddler in an old-time stringband
G D C C
My baby plays the guitar, I pick a banjo now
G D
Oh, the North country winters keep a gettin’ me now
Em C
Lost my money playin’ poker so I had to up and leave
G D C C
But I ain’t a turnin’ back To livin’ that old life no more So
Chorus:
G D
Rock me mama like a wagon wheel
Em C
Rock me mama anyway you feel
G D C C
Heeeey, mama rock me
G D
Rock me mama like the wind and the rain
Em C
Rock me mama like a south-bound train
G D C C
Heeeey, mama rock me
Verse 3:
G D (One Strum Each)
Walkin’ to the south out of Roanoke
Em C
I caught a trucker out of Philly Had a nice long toke
G D
But he’s a headed west from the Cumberland Gap
C C
To Johnson City, Tennessee and I
(Continue strumming)
G D
Gotta get a move on fit for the sun
Em
I hear my baby callin’ my name
C
And I know that she’s the only one
G D C C
And if I die in Raleigh At least I will die free So
Chorus:
G D
Rock me mama like a wagon wheel
Em C
Rock me mama anyway you feel
G D C C
Heeeey, mama rock me
G D
Rock me mama like the wind and the rain
Em C
Rock me mama like a south-bound train
G D C C
Heeeey, mama rock me
Strumming and Rhythm Tips
For “Wagon Wheel,” a simple and effective strumming pattern to start with is Down, Down, Up, Up, Down, Up. Once you get comfortable with the chords, try to synchronize this strumming pattern with the rhythm of the song.
Listen to the original recording of “Wagon Wheel” closely to get a feel for the tempo and rhythm. Don’t be afraid to start slow and gradually increase your speed as you become more comfortable. Experiment with slightly different strumming patterns to find what sounds best to you. The beauty of “Wagon Wheel” lies in its relaxed and folksy feel, so aim for a smooth and steady rhythm.
Making It Your Own
These chords and lyrics provide a solid foundation for playing “Wagon Wheel” on guitar. As you become more proficient, feel free to explore variations:
- Experiment with different strumming patterns: Try adding accents or syncopation to your strumming.
- Add a capo: If you want to sing along in a different key, a capo can be your best friend. Experiment with placing the capo on different frets to find a key that suits your vocal range.
- Play along with others: “Wagon Wheel” is a fantastic song to play with friends. Try playing it with other instruments like banjo, fiddle, or bass to enhance the sound.
Conclusion: Get Rolling with Wagon Wheel
“Wagon Wheel” is more than just a song; it’s an experience. Learning to play it on guitar is a rewarding journey that connects you to a piece of American musical culture. With its simple chord structure and catchy tune, it’s an excellent choice for guitarists of all levels, especially beginners. So pick up your guitar, learn these chords, and start strumming your way to mastering “Wagon Wheel.” You’ll be rocking “mama” in no time!
