Ctap to play
Ftap to play
Gtap to play
Key
C Major
Difficulty
Beginner
Capo
None
Chords
C · F · G
The ultimate first ukulele song. Three chords, a universally known melody, and a tempo slow enough that even brand-new players can keep up from their very first attempt.
Strumming Pattern (4/4 Time)
↓↓↑↑
1234
Tip: On ukulele, C is a single-finger chord (3rd fret, 1st string), F uses two fingers, and G uses three — making this a perfect progression for building finger strength.
How to play
Step-by-Step Guide
1
Learn the three chords
You need C, F, and G. On ukulele, these are among the very first chords you learn.
2
Get the sunny strum
The strum should be bright and cheerful. Down-down-up-up with a gentle, lilting feel.
3
Learn the verse
The verse alternates C and F, with G appearing at the turnaround. Each chord gets a full bar.
4
Sing it with joy
This is a song about happiness. Let that come through in your playing and singing. Smile while you play — it changes the sound.
Lyrics & Chords
Full Song — Guitar Version
Chorus
C F
You are my sunshine, my only sunshine
C G
You make me happy when skies are gray
C F
You’ll never know, dear, how much I love you
C G C
Please don’t take my sunshine away
Verse 1
C F
The other night, dear, as I lay sleeping
C G
I dreamed I held you in my arms
C F
When I awoke, dear, I was mistaken
C G C
So I hung my head and cried
Practice tip: This is quite possibly the easiest song you will ever learn on ukulele. If you can play C, F, and G, you can play this song today. Right now. Go for it.