Speed Of A Whippoorwill
View chords used in this chart
Capo 4
Intro: G (2x)
G G7
I know I had to leave you, there's work to be done
C G
I swear when this job is over, it's to you I'm gonna run
G G7
Long wind(?) blow, blow on down the line
C G
I'll be in the arms of my darling, in just three weeks time
C G C G
I'll be coming home, pockets full of bills
C G D G
I'll be coming home, speed of a whippoorwill
Break: G x2
G G7
Roll tracks, roll, lay a half mile-a-day
C G
Set the spike and the hammer, fill my pockets with pay
G G7
Dynamite that rock, keep the cross ties flat and square
C G
Dreams of my darling, two weeks till I'm there
C G C G
I'll be coming home, ready for a thrill
C G D G
I'll be coming home, speed of a whippoorwill
Instrumental Chorus x1 (4 bars)
G G7
Water boy come running, I'm dry as the dirt
C G
The days keep getting longer, I've got hurt on top of hurt
G G7
I hear the steam engine, rolling from the west
C G
Tracks will join in a few more days, and I'll finally get my rest
C G C G
I'll be coming home, ready for a thrill
C G D G
I'll be coming home, speed of a whippoorwill
C G C G
Yes I'll be coming home, pockets full of bills
C G D G
I'll be coming home, speed of a whippoorwill
Instrumental Chorus x3 (12 bars) until end
How to play Speed Of A Whippoorwill
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.