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Key
E
Difficulty
Beginner
Capo
None
Chords
E · A · B
Big River Chords – Guitar
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Key
E
Difficulty
Beginner
Tuning
G-C-E-A
Chords
E · A · B
Big River Chords – Ukulele
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Key
E
Difficulty
Beginner
Left Hand
Root notes
Chords
E · A · B
Big River Chords – Piano
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Btap to play
Key
E
Difficulty
Beginner
Tuning
gDGBD (Open G)
Chords
E · A · B
Big River Chords – Banjo
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Btap to play
Key
E
Difficulty
Beginner
Tuning
G-D-A-E
Chords
E · A · B
Big River Chords – Mandolin
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Btap to play
Key
E
Difficulty
Beginner
Harp Key
C Diatonic
Chords
E · A · B
Big River Chords – Harmonica
Johnny Cash’s classic tale of chasing love down the Mississippi River. Beginner difficulty in the key of E.
Chords used: E, A, B · Key: E · Difficulty: Beginner · More 3-chord songs →
Train Beat Strum (4/4 Time)
↓↓↑↑↓↑
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Tip: Keep a steady, driving rhythm to mimic the flow of the river.
Chords & Structure
Full Song
Verse 1
E
A – E
E
A – E
Chorus
E – A (×3)
E – B
Verse 2
E
A – E
E
A – E
Chorus
E – A (×3)
E – B
Verse 3
E
A – E
E
A – E
Chorus
E – A (×3)
E – B
Practice tip: Focus on the quick change from the E chord to the A chord, which drives the song’s rhythm. The B chord only appears once per chorus, so take your time to nail that transition.
Frequently Asked Questions
What chords do you need to play "Big River"?
You need 3 beginner-friendly chords: E, A and B.
Is "Big River" easy to play on guitar?
It is rated beginner and uses only 3 chords in the key of E, making it a good choice for players at that level.
What key is "Big River" in?
It is in the key of E.
Who wrote "Big River"?
It was written by Johnny Cash, and released in 1958.