Jolly Old Saint Nicholas
View chords used in this chart
Jolly old Saint Nicholas, lean your ear this way [C G7 Am Em]
Don't you tell a single soul what I'm going to say [F C G G7]
Christmas Eve is coming soon; now my dear old man [C G7 Am Em]
Whisper what you'll bring to me; tell me if you can [F C G7 C]
When the clock is striking twelve, when I'm fast asleep
Down the chimney, broad and black, with your pack you'll creep
All the stockings you will find hanging in a row
Mine will be the shortest one, you'll be sure to know
Bobby wants a pair of skates, Suzy wants a sled
Nellie wants a picture book, yellow, blue, and red
Now I think I'll leave to you what to give the rest
Choose for me, dear Santa Claus; you will know the best.
[This chord progression is similar to Pachelbel's Canon in D major. You can
play the "melody" using the available strings. Try it soft and slow and then
jump into these lyrics. It's a kick. sj]
How to play Jolly Old Saint Nicholas
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 C. 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.