Am
C
G
D
Em
Louisiana Man
The Seekers
"Louisiana Man" is a classic folk tune famously performed by The Seekers, known for its lively tempo and storytelling lyrics. The original version features an upbeat, rhythmic feel that captures the Cajun spirit, making it both fun and accessible for beginner guitarists.
Chord Progression and Positions
The song uses common open chords: G, Em, D, C, and Am. These are beginner-friendly and appear throughout the verses and chorus. Practice switching between these chords smoothly, especially G to Em and G to D, as these transitions occur frequently.
Strumming Pattern
A simple and effective strumming pattern is: Down-Down-Up-Up-Down-Up This folk rhythm suits the song’s upbeat feel. Start slowly, focusing on steady timing, and gradually build speed as you get comfortable.
Tips for Beginners
**- For easier chord changes, keep your fingers close to the strings and minimize hand movement.
- For the intro and outro “Am” section, let the chord ring slightly before moving to “C” and “G.”
- Use a capo on the 2nd fret if you prefer a higher vocal range; otherwise, play open.
- Tap your foot along to maintain the song’s lively groove.
- Don’t worry about perfection—focus on the sing-along energy and storytelling.**
Enjoy playing and singing "Louisiana Man" with its catchy melody and down-to-earth charm!
Intro
Am Oh yeah-ah-ah-ah. Cajun man do what he can,
C Gotta make a livin' he's aG LouisianaC Man ohD oh.
Verse 1AtG birth mom and papa called theirEm little boy Ned.
G Raised him on the banks of theD riverG bed.
A houseboat tied to aEm big tall tree,
AG home for my papa and myD mama andG me.
Verse 2The clock strikes three and papaEm jumps to his feet.
AlG ready mama's cooking papaD somethin' toG eat.
At half past papa he's aEm ready to go.
HeG jumps in his pirogue headedD down the bayG ou.
ChorusHe's got aC fishing line strung across the Louisiana River,
Gotta catch a big fish forG us toC eat.
He's-sets-his-traps in the swamp catches anything he can.
Gotta make a livin' he's aG LouisianaC man.
Gotta make a livin' he's aG LouisianaC man ohAm yeah-ah-ah-ah.
Cajun man do what he can,C gotta make a livin' he's aG LouisianaC Man ohD oh.
Verse 3TheyG call mama Rita and myEm daddy Jack,
G Little baby brother on theD floor isG Mack.
Bren and Lin are theEm family twins,
G Big brother Ed's on theD bayou fishG in'.
Verse 4On the river floats papa'sEm great big boat,
G That's how my papa goesD intoG town.
Takes every bit of aEm night and a day,
ToG even reach a place where theD peopleG stay.
ChorusHe's got aC fishing line strung across the Louisiana River,
Gotta catch a big fish forG us toC eat.
He's-sets-his-traps in the swamp catches anything he can.
Gotta make a livin' he's aG LouisianaC man.
Gotta make a livin' he's aG LouisianaC man oohD ooh.
Verse 5G I can hardly wait until toEm morrow comes round,
G That's the day my papa takes hisD furs toG town.
Papa said "Son we've gotEm lines to run,
We'llG come back again cuz there'sD work to beG done."
OutroHe's got aC fishing line strung across the Louisiana River,
Gotta catch a big fish forG us toC eat.
He's-sets-his-traps in the swamp catches anything he can.
Gotta make a livin' he's aG LouisianaC man.
Gotta make a livin' he's aG LouisianaC man ohAm yeah-ah-ah-ah.
Cajun man do what he can,C gotta make a livin' he's aG LouisianaC Man.
Gotta make a livin' he's aG LouisianaC Man.C