WELCOME to the BMAM bluegrass song page.  The purpose of this page is to aid beginning bluegrassers by posting songs that are frequently played in jam circles.  Songs will include: lyrics, chords and, when possible, available sheet music. The songs listed are normally well known, and fun for all levels of play from beginners on. When possible links to you tube, or other places on the web will accompany the song(s) and in the same key for ease of playing along with them at home. We hope to get videos of songs from our jams in the near future.  There are so many songs, too many to mention, but the list of Common Songs provided is a good reference.  Most of these songs and tunes will be a good addition to any bluegrass jam

Old Joe Clark - Traditional

Popular tune, most of the time played instrumentally but sometimes someone will sing the words.

Clicking this picture will open a printable PDF

Here are four videos of Old Joe Clark in the key of A including beginning mandolin, banjo, fiddle and also, some fun kids to play along with. (Videos have slight variations to the sheet music).

 

NOTE: Not all songs are played the same, as lyrics (and sometimes chords) may vary from group to group.
**ALSO, songs are normally played in the key comfortable for the singer.  This may be easy for some instruments and more difficult for others.  Guitar, banjo and resonator guitars (aka Dobros) can put a capo on to change keys. Other instruments will need to transpose chords or keys as needed.