C
G
Em
Am
F
D7
E
A
I've Got A Name
Jim Croce
Jim Croce’s “I’ve Got a Name” is a classic folk-rock song known for its warm, uplifting sound and straightforward chord structure. The original features acoustic guitar, making it ideal for beginners.
Chords & Structure
The song uses open chords: C, G, Am, F, D7, Em, E, and A.
Most are beginner-friendly, though F and D7 may take some practice. Review finger positions before starting.
Strumming Pattern
A relaxed, even strumming suits the feel. Try:
Down, down-up, up-down-up
Keep your wrist loose for smooth transitions and listen to the original for rhythm reference.
Chord Transitions
Watch for quick changes between C and G, and Am to F.
Practice moving between these pairs slowly, focusing on keeping fingers close to the strings.
Tips for Beginners
- Practice the F chord as a simplified version (play only top four strings), if barre chords are challenging.
- During the bridge, note the shift to E and D7 – take them slowly at first.
- The chorus repeats a progression; internalize it early for confidence.
- Use a capo on the 2nd fret if you want to match the original key (optional).
With practice, the song’s steady tempo and familiar chords make it rewarding for new players.
Intro
C G Em G
C G Em G
Verse 1C Like the pine treesG lining the windingAm road
I've got aF nameG , I've got aC nameG
C Like the singingG bird and the croakingAm toad
I've got aD7 name, I've got aG name
Bridge 1Em And I carry itF with me like myC daddy did
E But I'm living theAm dreamD7 , that he keptG hid
Chorus 1Em Moving me down the highF way,Em Moving me down the highA way
F Moving ahead soG life won't pass meC by
Verse 2C Like the north windG whistling down theAm sky
I've got aF songG , I've got aC songG
C Like the whippoorG will and the baby'sAm cry
I've got aD7 song, I've got aG song
Bridge 2Em And I carry itF with me like myC daddy did
E But I'm living theAm dreamD7 , that he keptG hid
Chorus 2Em Moving me down the highF way,Em Moving me down theA highway
F Moving ahead soG life won't pass meC by
InstrumentalC G Am F G C G
C G Am D7 G
Verse 3C And I'm gonnaG goC there free
Like the fool IG am and I'll alwaysAm be
I've got aF dreamG , I've got aC dreamG
C They can change theirG minds but they can't changeAm me
I've got aD7 dream, I've got aG dream
Bridge 3Em I know I couldF share it if youC want me to
E If you're goingAm my wayD7 , I'll go withG you
Chorus 3Em Moving me down the highF way,Em Rollin' me down theA highway
F Moving ahead soG life won't pass meC by
OutroEm Moving me down the highF way,Em Rollin' me down theA highway
F Moving ahead soG life won't pass meC by