James River Blues
View chords used in this chart
Intro: Bm G
Bm G A D
D G
James River blues
D G
I just heard the awful news
D G
I could steer around the rocks
D G
But they're bustin' down the docks
D G D G
D G
James River blues
D G
That train came on through
D G
And the works getting slow
D G
Now where's a boat man to go?
Bm G
I think I'll float on down
Bm G
To Richmond town
Bm G
They don't need us anymore
Bm
Haulin' freight from shore to shore
G
That big iron hauls much more
C
Than we ever could before
D G D G
D G
I've seen good men going wrong
D G
I've seen bad ones get it right
D G
As that river rolls along
D G
I'll be stepping out tonight
Bm G
On the cool flow
Bm G
Floatin' down, down below
Bm G
The bridge to the waters edge
Bm G
From the ridge to ledge
Bm G
From the hills to the sea
Bm G C
I'll become a memory
D G
James River Blues
D G
James River Blues
D G
James River Blues
D G D G D G D G
How to play James River Blues
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 Bm. 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.