Amtap to play
Gtap to play
Key
Am
Difficulty
Beginner
Capo
None
Chords
Am · G
Cotton-Eyed Joe Chords – Guitar
Amtap to play
Gtap to play
Key
Am
Difficulty
Beginner
Tuning
G-C-E-A
Chords
Am · G
Cotton-Eyed Joe Chords – Ukulele
Amtap to play
Gtap to play
Key
Am
Difficulty
Beginner
Left Hand
Root notes
Chords
Am · G
Cotton-Eyed Joe Chords – Piano
Amtap to play
Gtap to play
Key
Am
Difficulty
Beginner
Tuning
gDGBD (Open G)
Chords
Am · G
Cotton-Eyed Joe Chords – Banjo
Amtap to play
Gtap to play
Key
Am
Difficulty
Beginner
Tuning
G-D-A-E
Chords
Am · G
Cotton-Eyed Joe Chords – Mandolin
Amtap to play
Gtap to play
Key
Am
Difficulty
Beginner
Harp Key
C Diatonic
Chords
Am · G
Cotton-Eyed Joe Chords – Harmonica
Amtap to play
Gtap to play
Key
Am
Difficulty
Beginner
Tuning
G-D-A-E
Chords
Am · G
Cotton-Eyed Joe Chords – Violin
How to Play
Step-by-Step Guide
Chords used: Am, G · Key: Am · Difficulty: Beginner · More 2-chord songs →
1
Two chords
Just Am and G — bounce between them throughout.
2
Country strum
Use a fast, driving strum. This is a dance tune — keep the tempo up!
Chords & Structure
Full Song
Chorus
Am – G (×2)
Verse 1
Am – G (×2)
Frequently Asked Questions
What chords do you need to play "Cotton-Eyed Joe"?
You need 2 Beginner-friendly chords: Am and G.
Is "Cotton-Eyed Joe" easy to play on guitar?
It is rated Beginner and uses only 2 chords in the key of Am, making it a good choice for players at that level.
What key is "Cotton-Eyed Joe" in?
It is in the key of Am.
Who wrote "Cotton-Eyed Joe"?
It was written by Traditional.