Etap to play
Atap to play
B7tap to play
Key
E
Difficulty
Beginner
Capo
None
Chords
E · A · B7
Folsom Prison Blues Chords – Guitar
Etap to play
Atap to play
B7tap to play
Key
E
Difficulty
Beginner
Tuning
G-C-E-A
Chords
E · A · B7
Folsom Prison Blues Chords – Ukulele
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Atap to play
B7tap to play
Key
E
Difficulty
Beginner
Left Hand
Root notes
Chords
E · A · B7
Folsom Prison Blues Chords – Piano
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Atap to play
B7tap to play
Key
E
Difficulty
Beginner
Tuning
gDGBD (Open G)
Chords
E · A · B7
Folsom Prison Blues Chords – Banjo
Etap to play
Atap to play
B7tap to play
Key
E
Difficulty
Beginner
Tuning
G-D-A-E
Chords
E · A · B7
Folsom Prison Blues Chords – Mandolin
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Atap to play
B7tap to play
Key
E
Difficulty
Beginner
Harp Key
C Diatonic
Chords
E · A · B7
Folsom Prison Blues Chords – Harmonica
Johnny Cash’s classic outlaw country anthem. Three chords with a boom-chicka-boom train beat.
Chords used: E, A, B7 · Key: E · Difficulty: Beginner · More 3-chord songs →
Train Beat (4/4 Time)
↓↑↓↑
1234
Tip: The signature train beat alternates bass notes. On E, alternate between the low E and B strings on beats 1 and 3.
Chords & Structure
Full Song
Verse 1
E (×2)
A – E
B7 – E
Verse 2
E (×2)
A – E
B7 – E
How to Play
Step-by-Step Guide
1
Learn the chords
This song uses 3 chords in the key of E: E A B7. Get each shape clean on its own first.
2
Practice the changes
Switch slowly between the two hardest chords in a loop until the move feels automatic — no strumming yet.
3
Add the strumming
Bring in a simple down-strum once the changes are smooth, then build up to the song’s rhythm.
4
Play along
Play with the original track to lock in the timing and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What chords do you need to play "Folsom Prison Blues"?
You need 3 beginner-friendly chords: E, A and B7.
Is "Folsom Prison Blues" 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 "Folsom Prison Blues" in?
It is in the key of E.
Who wrote "Folsom Prison Blues"?
It was written by Johnny Cash.