James

Chords
4.871 votes
15
Original
Lyrics & ChordsClick chords to see diagrams
[Intro]
| Dm7| Gm7| C| F   C/E|
| Dm7| Gm| C| F   A7|
| Dm7| Gm7| C| F   A7|
[Verse]
Dm7James ... Gm7we were always Cfriends,
FFrom our childhood dCmaysD7  
Gm7And we made our planCs,
FAnd we had to Dm7go our Gseparate F/CwaysC.
F9I went on the roadBb  
E7You pursued an Aeducation.
[Verse]
Dm7James ... Gm7do you like your Clife,
FCan you find relCmeaseD7,
Gm7And will you ever chCange
FWill you ever wDm7rite your GmasterF/CpiecCe.
F9Are you still in sBbchool
E7Living up to Aexpectations ...
[Bridge]
| Dm| Bbmaj7| Am7|
James ...
Abmaj7You were so relied upoGm7n
C9susEverybody knows how Bbhard you FtriedA  
| Dm| Bbmaj7| Am7|
Hey...
Just Ablook at what a job you've dGm7one
C9susCarrying the Cweight of fAsusamily priAde.
[Verse]
Dm7James ... Gm7you've been well beChaved,
FYou've been working CmhardD7  
Gm7But will you always Cstay
FSomeone else's Dm7dream of wGho you aF/Cre.C  
F9Do what's good for youBb  
E7or you're not good for Aanybody ...
[Instrumental]
| Dm7| Gm7| C| F   C/E|
James ...
| Dm7| Gm7| C7| F   A7|
| Dm7| F/C   C|
F9I went on the roBbad
E7You pursued an Aeducation ...
[Bridge]
| Dm| Bbmaj7| Am7|
James ...
Abmaj7How you gonna know for Gm7sure
C9suseverything was so well BborganizeFd.A  
| Dm| Bbmaj7| Am7|
Hey ...
Now Abeverything is so Gm7secure,
C9susand everybody Celse is satAsusisfied.A  
[Verse]
Dm7James ... Gm7do you like your Clife,
FCan you find relCmeaseD7  
Gm7And will you ever chCange,
FWhen will you wDm7rite your GmasterF/CpiecCe.
F9Do what's good for yoBbu
E7or you're not good for Aanybody ...
[Outro]
| Dm7| Gm7| C| F   C/E|
James...
| Dm7| Gm| C7| F   A7|
| Dm7| Gm7| C| F   C/E|
| Dm7| Gm7| C| F   A7|
| Dm7| Gm7| F/C   C| Bb/F   F|
All chords in this song (24)

The story behind the song

This song offers a wistful reflection on growing up and the different paths friends take, exploring the tension between personal dreams and societal expectations. It unfolds as a heartfelt conversation with "James," a friend who chose a traditional, stable life, prioritizing education and responsibility. The lyrics admire James's dedication but question his true happiness, wondering if he's living his own dream or fulfilling others' expectations. At its heart, it's a poignant exploration of authenticity and the search for personal fulfillment.

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About James Chords by Billy Joel

Learn how to play James by Billy Joel with free guitar chords, lyrics, and interactive chord diagrams. Search for “James chords”, “James guitar chords”, or “Billy Joel James chords” and you will find this page — transpose to any key, tap chords for diagrams, and use auto-scroll while you play. Perfect for beginners looking for easy James chords and for experienced players who want accurate James lyrics and chords in one place. Common chords in this song include Dm7, Gm7, C, F, C/E, Gm.

FAQ — James by Billy Joel

How do I play "James" by Billy Joel on guitar?

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Can I transpose "James" to a different key?

Yes. Use the transpose buttons on the song page to shift "James" up or down by half-steps so it matches your vocal range or capo position.

Can I see chord diagrams for "James"?

Yes. Tap any chord in "James" to instantly see an interactive guitar chord diagram with alternate fingerings.

Is "James" easy to play on guitar?

Many players learn "James" by Billy Joel with our free chords. Use transpose and chord diagrams to simplify tricky shapes, and browse related songs by Billy Joel below.

What key is "James" in?

The chords for "James" show the original chord names (including Dm7, Gm7, C, F, C/E, Gm). Use transpose to move the song into any key that fits your voice or capo.