Ball & Chain
View chords used in this chart
G C G
Back when we made our plans to tie the knot
C G
My friends they all laughed at me a lot
C G
They slapped my back and told me how they thought I was insane
A7 D
They said ?Son, you?re too young to wear that ball and chain
C G
But love don't feel like a ball and chain to me
C G A D
When I'm close to you my heart feels wild and free
C G (walk down) Em
If you are my jailer, darlin? throw away the key
C D G
Love don't feel like a ball and chain to me
C D
Love don't feel like a ball and chain
G (walk down) Em
It don't feel like a ball and chain
C D G
Love don't feel like a ball and chain to me
Well I still see my single friends from time to time
And they ask me how it feels to walk the line
Well I tell 'em it feels better than I ever dreamed it would
And I would not trade places with em? even if I could
C G
But love don't feel like a ball and chain to me
C G A D
When I'm close to you my heart feels wild and free
C G (walk down) Em
If you are my jailer, darlin? throw away the key
C D G
Love don't feel like a ball and chain to me
Bridge:
D
Well if it is a crime for a man to love his wife
C
Throw that old book at me give me 99 to life
D
And I'll spend every minute every hour every day
Em C D
Holding you close I don't wanta get away
How to play Ball & Chain
Use the controls above to change the key and text size. Follow the highlighted chords while listening, then practice each section slowly before playing at the original tempo.
What is the starting chord?
The first identified chord is G. You can transpose without leaving the page.
Can I play it on guitar or keyboard?
Yes. The chord progression works on acoustic guitar, electric guitar and keyboard. Adapt the voicings to your instrument and level.