Salty Dog

Chords
4.526 votes
15
Original

Capo on fret 2 (as written in this song)

Lyrics & ChordsClick chords to see diagrams
1/4
Sound:
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Step 1 / 4Position: 1
1 index2 middle3 ring4 pinkyO open
Capo 2
Riff going into the verses:
e|-------A70-|
B|-------2-|
G|-------0-|
D|-------2-|
A|-3-2-1-0-|
E|---------|
[Intro]
A7   D   G   C(x2)
[Verse 1]
A7Standin' on the corner with the low down blues
D7Great big hole in the bottom of my shoes
GHoney let me G7be your Salty CDog
[Chorus]
A7Let me be your Salty Dog
Or D7I won't be your little man at all
GHoney let me G7be your Salty CDog
[Verse 2]
A7Looky here Sal, well I know you
D7Run down stockin' and a worn out shoe
GHoney let me G7be your Salty CDog
[Chorus]
A7Let me be your Salty Dog
Or D7I won't be your little man at all
GHoney let me G7be your Salty CDog
[Solo]
A7 D7 G C
[Verse 3]
A7Down in the wildwood sitting on a log
D7Finger on the trigger and eye on the hog
GHoney let me G7be your Salty DoCg
[Chorus]
A7Let me be your Salty Dog
Or D7I won't be your little man at all
GHoney let me G7be your Salty CDog
[Verse 4]
Well I A7pulled that trigger and the gun said go
D7Shotgun over in Mexico
GHoney let me G7be your Salty CDog
[Chorus]
A7Let me be your Salty Dog
Or D7I won't be your little man at all
GHoney let me G7be your Salty CDog....salt it down now
[Solo]
A7 D7 G C
[Chorus]
A7Let me be your Salty Dog
Or D7I won't be your little man at all
GHoney let me G7be your Salty CDog
A7Let me be your Salty Dog
Or D7I won't be your little man at all
GHoney let me G7be your Salty CDogG  C  
All chords in this song (6)

The story behind the song

"Salty Dog" is a folk song with a long history, appearing in various styles like blues, jazz, country, and bluegrass. The lyrics often revolve around a plea to "be your Salty Dog," with versions dating back to the early 1900s. Johnny Cash, known for his deep voice and themes of sorrow and redemption, brings his distinctive style to this traditional tune. Playing it, you tap into a rich vein of American musical heritage, embodying a spirited, perhaps even defiant, affection.

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About Salty Dog Chords by Johnny Cash

Learn how to play Salty Dog by Johnny Cash with free guitar chords, lyrics, and interactive chord diagrams. Search for “Salty Dog chords”, “Salty Dog guitar chords”, or “Johnny Cash Salty Dog 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 Salty Dog chords and for experienced players who want accurate Salty Dog lyrics and chords in one place. Common chords in this song include A7, B, G, D, A, E.

FAQ — Salty Dog by Johnny Cash

How do I play "Salty Dog" by Johnny Cash on guitar?

Open the free chords for "Salty Dog" by Johnny Cash on Free Chord Book. Tap any chord to see its diagram, use transpose to change the key, and turn on auto-scroll to play hands-free.

Are the chords for "Salty Dog" by Johnny Cash free?

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Can I transpose "Salty Dog" to a different key?

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

Can I see chord diagrams for "Salty Dog"?

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

Is "Salty Dog" easy to play on guitar?

Many players learn "Salty Dog" by Johnny Cash with our free chords. Use transpose and chord diagrams to simplify tricky shapes, and browse related songs by Johnny Cash below.

What key is "Salty Dog" in?

The chords for "Salty Dog" show the original chord names (including A7, B, G, D, A, E). Use transpose to move the song into any key that fits your voice or capo.