How to Practice This Land Is Your Land

Woody Guthrie's 'This Land Is Your Land' is the unofficial American folk anthem. The simple chord changes, the straightforward melody, and the iconic singalong chorus make it accessible to absolute beginners. It's also the foundational song of the modern folk tradition.

What to Focus On

Steady strumming in 4/4. Smooth G-C-D chord changes. Confident, full-voiced singing of the chorus.

Practice Tips

1. 1

   The chord progression is the simplest American folk standard: I-IV-V (G-C-D in the key of G).

2. 2

   The song is celebratory and political. Sing it with commitment; a tentative performance misses the point.

3. 3

   It works as a solo singer-songwriter song or as a group sing-along. Adjust your dynamics to the situation.

Why This Song

It's the American folk anthem. Every folk musician knows it; it belongs in every American songbook.