Written in 1971 during the Vietnam War, it was inspired by John Lennon and Yoko Ono's global peace activism, particularly their "War Is Over" campaign.

The song blends a gentle 6/8 waltz rhythm with simple chords, making it perfect for beginner guitarists. Its universal themes of hope and unity have made it a timeless favorite, especially during the holiday season. Play it to spread joy and inspire a call for peace!

To the full list of Christmas songs

Chords Used:

  • G (320003)
  • D (xx0232)
  • Em (022000)
  • C (x32010)
  • Am (x02210)
  • Bm (x24432 or x20202 for an easier version)

Intro:

e|---3----2----0---------0---------|
B|---3----3----0----1----1---------|
G|---0----2----0----0----2---------|
D|---0----0----2----2----2---------|
A|---2---------2----3----0---------|
E|---3---------0-------------------|
    G    D    Em   C    D

Play this progression twice.

Verse 1: (Strumming: Down, Down-Up, Down-Up)

G            D          Em        C  
So this is Christmas, and what have you done,  
G            D          C         Am  
Another year over, and a new one just begun.  
G            D          Em        C  
And so this is Christmas, I hope you have fun,  
G            D          C              Am  
The near and the dear ones, the old and the young.

Chorus:

C            D         Em         Bm  
A very merry Christmas and a happy New Year,  
Am           D             Em       C  
Let's hope it's a good one without any fear.

Verse 2: (Same progression as Verse 1)

G            D          Em        C  
And so this is Christmas, for weak and for strong,  
G            D          C         Am  
For rich and the poor ones, the road is so long.  
G            D          Em        C  
And so happy Christmas, for black and for white,  
G            D          C         Am  
For yellow and red ones, let's stop all the fight.

Chorus (Repeat):

C            D         Em         Bm  
A very merry Christmas and a happy New Year,  
Am           D             Em       C  
Let's hope it's a good one without any fear.

Outro (Play softly):

G            D          Em        C  
War is over, if you want it,  
G            D          C         Am  
War is over now.

Repeat as the song fades out.

Tips for Beginners:

  1. 6/8 Time Signature: Count "1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6" and strum gently in a down-up-down-up pattern to get the waltz-like feel.
  2. Practice the Bm Chord: If barre chords are challenging, use Bm7 (x20202) or Dsus2 (xx0230) instead.
  3. Chord Transitions: Slow down and master transitions between G, D, Em, and C before adding speed.
  4. Sing Along: This song’s emotional impact is in its lyrics. Singing while strumming helps you connect with the rhythm and feel.

Enjoy spreading the peace and joy of this timeless classic!

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