G
D7
C
Cadd9
D
I'm On My Way
The Proclaimers
***
About the Original
“I'm On My Way” by The Proclaimers is a classic folk-rock tune known for its upbeat, driving rhythm and sing-along feel. The original features bright acoustic guitar strumming, simple chord progressions, and an infectious energy that’s perfect for beginners.
Chords and Transitions
The song uses mostly open chords: G, D7, C, Cadd9, and D. G and C are standard beginner shapes. Cadd9 is similar to C but with the second string open; try transitioning between C and Cadd9 by keeping your index and middle fingers in place and just adjusting your ring finger. Practice moving between G and C, and C to Cadd9, as these are common transitions throughout the song.
Strumming Pattern
A simple, energetic strumming pattern works best. Try Down-Down-Up-Up-Down-Up (D-D-U-U-D-U) per measure. For the intro and verses, keep the strumming light and bouncy to match the song’s folk vibe. During the “Uh-huh” sections, you might emphasize the down strums to mimic the vocal rhythm.
Tips for Beginners
Keep your wrist loose for fluid strumming. Count the beats out loud if needed. When switching from D7 to G, lead with your ring finger for a smoother change. For the chorus, play a bit louder to create a dynamic lift. Repetition of the G chord at the end gives a satisfying finish—strum confidently and let the chord ring.
Intro
G
Verse 1G I'm on my way, from misery to happiness today. Uh-huh, uh-huh, uh-huh, uh-huh.
D7 I'm on my way, from misery to happiness today. Uh-huh, uh-huh, uh-huh, uh-huh.
G I'm on my way, toC what I want fromCadd9 thisC world.
G And years from now, you'llC make it to theCadd9 nextC world.
G And everything, thatC you receive upCadd9 yon-C der.
G Is what you gave, toC me the day ID wandered.
Verse 2G I took a right, I took a right turning yesterday. Uh-huh, uh-huh, uh-huh, uh-huh.
D7 Yeah I took a right, I took a right turning yesterday. Yay, yay, yay, yah.
G I took the road, thatC brought me to yourCadd9 homeC town.
G I took the bus, toC streets that I couldCadd9 walkC down.
G I walked the streets, toC find the one I'dCadd9 lookedC for.
G I climbed the stair, thatC led me to yourD front door.
ChorusC And now, thatD I don't want, forG anything. Oooh ooh ooh ooh ooh.
C I'd have AlD Jolson sing "I'mG sitting on top of theD world."
Verse 3G I'll do my best, I'll do my best to do the best I can. Uh-huh, uh-huh, uh-huh, uh-huh.
D7 Yeah I'll do my best, I'll do my best to do the best I ca-a-a-an.
G To keep my feet, fromC jumpin' from theCadd9 groundC dear.
G To keep my heart, fromC jumping through myCadd9 mouthC dear.
G To keep the past, theC past and not theCadd9 pres-C ent.
G To try and learn, whenC you teach me aD lesson.
ChorusC And now, thatD I don't want, forG anything. Oooh ooh ooh ooh ooh.
C I'd have AlD Jolson sing "I'mG sitting on top of theD world."
Verse 4G I'm on my way, from misery to happiness today. Uh-huh, uh-huh, uh-huh, uh-huh.
D7 Yeah I'm on my way, from misery to happiness today. Yay, yay, yay, yeah.
G I'm on my way, toC what I want fromCadd9 thisC world.
G And years from now, you'llC make it to theCadd9 nextC world.
G And everything, thatC you receive upCadd9 yon-C der.
G Is what you gave, toC me the day ICadd9 wan-C dered.
G I'm on my way, toC what I want fromCadd9 thisC world.
G And years from now, you'llC make it to theCadd9 nextC world.
G And everything, thatC you receive upCadd9 yon-C der.
G Is what you gave, toC me the day ID wandered.
OutroG I'm on my way. I'm on my way. I'm on my way. I'm on my way.
I'm on my way. I'm on my way. I'm on my way.G