The Streets Of London Lyrics And Chords Ralph McTell
The streets of London piano keyboard letter notes for beginners now included, plus the tenor guitar / mandola tab in CGDA Tuning. Another beauty of a song from Ralph McTell. I have just used the basic chords in chordpro for this one .I heard that Ralph originally was going to call this one The Streets Of Dublin. The song was recently recorded Sinéad O'Connor, Cat Stevens, Roger Whittaker and Mary Hopkins. The youtube video is by Liam Clancy who played the same chords I use except Liam used a capo on the 3rd fret. The piano sheet music and tin whistle notes and the ukulele chords are included. Also included are the chords for the original Ralph McTell version.The streets of London violin sheet music for beginners also now added and it shows which strings to place your fingers on to play the notes.
The Streets Of London Song Words With Guitar Chords In C Major
Have[C] you seen the[G] old man in the[Am] closed down[E] market
[F]Kicking up the[C] paper with his[F] worn out[G] shoes
[C]In his eyes you[G] see no pride
[Am]Hands held loosely[E] by his side,
[F]yesterday's[C] paper telling[G] yesterday's[C] news
[F]How can you[E] tell me you're[C] lone[Am]ly
And[D] say, for you, that the sun don't[G] shine
[C]Let me take you[G] by the hand
And[Am] lead you through the[E] streets of London
I'll[F] show you[C] something to[G] make you change your[C] mind
Have you seen the old gal who walks the streets of London
Dirt in her hair and her clothes in rags
She's no time for talkin, she just keeps right on walkin
Carryin her home in two big shopping bags
In the all night cafe at a quarter past eleven
Same old man sitting there on his own
Looking at the world over the rim of his teacup
Each tea lasts an hour and he goes home alone
Have you seen the old man outside the seaman's mission
Memory fading like the ribbons that he wears
In our winter city, the rain cries a little pity
For one more forgotten hero in a world that doesn't care
Have[C] you seen the[G] old man in the[Am] closed down[E] market
[F]Kicking up the[C] paper with his[F] worn out[G] shoes
[C]In his eyes you[G] see no pride
[Am]Hands held loosely[E] by his side,
[F]yesterday's[C] paper telling[G] yesterday's[C] news
[F]How can you[E] tell me you're[C] lone[Am]ly
And[D] say, for you, that the sun don't[G] shine
[C]Let me take you[G] by the hand
And[Am] lead you through the[E] streets of London
I'll[F] show you[C] something to[G] make you change your[C] mind
Have you seen the old gal who walks the streets of London
Dirt in her hair and her clothes in rags
She's no time for talkin, she just keeps right on walkin
Carryin her home in two big shopping bags
In the all night cafe at a quarter past eleven
Same old man sitting there on his own
Looking at the world over the rim of his teacup
Each tea lasts an hour and he goes home alone
Have you seen the old man outside the seaman's mission
Memory fading like the ribbons that he wears
In our winter city, the rain cries a little pity
For one more forgotten hero in a world that doesn't care
Alternative chords for the key of G Major.
Have[G] you seen the[D] old man in the[Em] closed down[B] market
[C]Kicking up the[G] paper with his[C] worn out[D] shoes
[G]In his eyes you[D] see no pride
[Em]Hands held loosely[B] by his side,
[C]yesterday's[G] paper telling[D] yesterday's[G] news
[C]How can you[B] tell me you're[G] lone[Em]ly
And[A] say, for you, that the sun don't[D] shine
[G]Let me take you[D] by the hand
And[Em] lead you through the[B] streets of London
I'll[C] show you[G] something to[D] make you change your[G] mind
Have[G] you seen the[D] old man in the[Em] closed down[B] market
[C]Kicking up the[G] paper with his[C] worn out[D] shoes
[G]In his eyes you[D] see no pride
[Em]Hands held loosely[B] by his side,
[C]yesterday's[G] paper telling[D] yesterday's[G] news
[C]How can you[B] tell me you're[G] lone[Em]ly
And[A] say, for you, that the sun don't[D] shine
[G]Let me take you[D] by the hand
And[Em] lead you through the[B] streets of London
I'll[C] show you[G] something to[D] make you change your[G] mind
Here are the intro. chords for Ralph McTell's version
[E] [B] [C#m] [G#m] [A] [E] [B] [E]
[E]Have you seen the[B] old man in the[C#m] closed down[G#m] market
[A]Kicking up the[E] paper with his[F#m] worn out[G#m] shoes
[B]In his [G#m]eyes you[B] see no pride
[C#m]Hands held loosely[G#m] by his side,
[A]yesterday's pa[E]per telling[B] yesterday's[E] news
So[A]How can you[G#m] tell me you're[E] lone[C#m]ly
And[D#m] say, for you, that the sun don't[B] shine
[E]Let me take you[B] by the hand
And[C#m] lead you through the[G#m] streets of London[A]
I'll show you[E] something to[B] make you change your[E] mind
[E] [B] [C#m] [G#m] [A] [E] [B] [E]
[E]Have you seen the[B] old man in the[C#m] closed down[G#m] market
[A]Kicking up the[E] paper with his[F#m] worn out[G#m] shoes
[B]In his [G#m]eyes you[B] see no pride
[C#m]Hands held loosely[G#m] by his side,
[A]yesterday's pa[E]per telling[B] yesterday's[E] news
So[A]How can you[G#m] tell me you're[E] lone[C#m]ly
And[D#m] say, for you, that the sun don't[B] shine
[E]Let me take you[B] by the hand
And[C#m] lead you through the[G#m] streets of London[A]
I'll show you[E] something to[B] make you change your[E] mind
B.B.C Interview with Ralph in 2012
Ralph has been a stalwart of the UK | music scene for over five decades and his | music career busking that was back in the | 1960s he never could have imagined the | success it would follow when he penned a | song about the streets. Yes, his classic track, ‘The Streets of London’ has been covered hundreds of times. Ralph is going to be here with us in a minute and he's also got his guitar and to see him there. Hello, I will talk to him a moment. At first let's remind ourselves of his greatest hit.
Oh, let me take you by the hand and lead you through the streets of London. I'll show you something to make you change your mind. Have you seen your girl what's the streets of London doin' her? And the clock strikes one, she's no time for talkin', she just keeps right on walkin' carryin' the news from home. Now is it fair, can you tell me, is it fair? In the morning look at the state you know, it's so many years ago. You know if we did that 20 of us, it would be the same. No talking to Ricky, though, just back streets, anything that they don't show me flat on my back. Before you o do that, but the years have flown, you know presumably that's I mean, if that's how it is, yes, it is. Yeah, it's been a long career and a very good one, you know, and I'm still fortunate enough to be doing what I did then.
Should we get the thing about that song out the way first because I mean yes it's an extraordinary thing for an artist to effectively, I mean with no disrespect to the rest of your work, but to be so known for one one song. Yeah, I've been through just about every emotion with regard to that because in the end though you end up feeling very fortunate that you were the one that wrote it. It was there to be written, the chords were all in the first position on the guitar, if you play the chords you can hear the tune and I I have to accept that it's opened more doors for me then it's closed. But I sometimes wish I could get squeeze pass and get some of my newer material because you like to think you've got better over the years, you know, maybe not come more commercial but maybe better as a writer and player. That's very interesting an amazing thing for a songwriter to feel.
Ralph has been a stalwart of the UK | music scene for over five decades and his | music career busking that was back in the | 1960s he never could have imagined the | success it would follow when he penned a | song about the streets. Yes, his classic track, ‘The Streets of London’ has been covered hundreds of times. Ralph is going to be here with us in a minute and he's also got his guitar and to see him there. Hello, I will talk to him a moment. At first let's remind ourselves of his greatest hit.
Oh, let me take you by the hand and lead you through the streets of London. I'll show you something to make you change your mind. Have you seen your girl what's the streets of London doin' her? And the clock strikes one, she's no time for talkin', she just keeps right on walkin' carryin' the news from home. Now is it fair, can you tell me, is it fair? In the morning look at the state you know, it's so many years ago. You know if we did that 20 of us, it would be the same. No talking to Ricky, though, just back streets, anything that they don't show me flat on my back. Before you o do that, but the years have flown, you know presumably that's I mean, if that's how it is, yes, it is. Yeah, it's been a long career and a very good one, you know, and I'm still fortunate enough to be doing what I did then.
Should we get the thing about that song out the way first because I mean yes it's an extraordinary thing for an artist to effectively, I mean with no disrespect to the rest of your work, but to be so known for one one song. Yeah, I've been through just about every emotion with regard to that because in the end though you end up feeling very fortunate that you were the one that wrote it. It was there to be written, the chords were all in the first position on the guitar, if you play the chords you can hear the tune and I I have to accept that it's opened more doors for me then it's closed. But I sometimes wish I could get squeeze pass and get some of my newer material because you like to think you've got better over the years, you know, maybe not come more commercial but maybe better as a writer and player. That's very interesting an amazing thing for a songwriter to feel.
The Streets of London is a highly acclaimed song that has been popular for over four decades, written and performed by the renowned British folk singer, Ralph McTell. Released in 1969, the song portrays the harsh reality of poverty and homelessness in London, and has become an anthem for the marginalized and downtrodden in society. The song’s powerful lyrics and haunting melody have captured the hearts of listeners all over the world, making it one of the most iconic and influential songs of all time.
In this thesis, I will explore the profound impact of The Streets of London and analyze the various elements that have contributed to its enduring popularity. The song’s lyrical content, musical style, and cultural significance will be examined, shedding light on its message and relevance in today’s society. Additionally, I will delve into the historical context of the song, highlighting the social and political climate that influenced its creation and reception.
The Streets of London is a poignant commentary on the harsh realities faced by the homeless in London during the late 1960s. The song’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of the struggles and hardships faced by those living on the streets, from the cold and hunger to the lack of shelter and human connection. McTell’s lyrics are simple yet powerful, as he uses emotive language to evoke a strong sense of empathy and compassion in the listener. Lines such as “have you seen the old man in the closed-down market, kicking up the paper with his worn out shoes” and “have you seen the old girl who walks the streets of London, dirt in her hair and her clothes in rags” paint a vivid image of the destitution and despair faced by the homeless in the city. The song’s chorus, “So how can you tell me you’re lonely, and say for you that the sun don’t shine? Let me take you by the hand and lead you through the streets of London, I’ll show you something to make you change your mind,” encapsulates the song’s message of empathy and understanding, urging the listener to see the humanity in those often ignored and marginalized by society.
In addition to its compelling lyrics, The Streets of London is also renowned for its musical style. The song’s simple yet haunting melody, accompanied by McTell’s soft and melancholic vocals, creates an emotional and somber atmosphere that perfectly complements the song’s message. The use of the acoustic guitar as the sole instrument in the song adds to its raw and intimate quality, making it a powerful and moving listening experience. McTell’s unique fingerpicking style, influenced by his admiration for American blues musicians, adds a distinct and captivating element to the song. This combination of lyrical depth and musical simplicity has made The Streets of London a timeless classic, with its message still resonating with listeners today.
Furthermore, The Streets of London has a significant cultural and historical significance. The song was written and released during a time of great social and political change in London. The late 1960s saw a rise in student activism and protests against social and economic inequality, which was reflected in the song’s lyrics and message of empathy and social awareness. The song was also released during a period of economic recession and rising homelessness in London, making it a powerful commentary on the struggles faced by the city’s most vulnerable citizens. The song’s release coincided with the emergence of the folk music revival in Britain, and its success played a significant role in popularizing the genre and its social and political themes.
In conclusion, The Streets of London is a timeless song that continues to resonate with listeners all over the world. Its powerful lyrics, captivating melody, and cultural significance have made it an enduring anthem for the marginalized and oppressed. McTell’s ability to capture the essence of the human experience and evoke empathy and understanding through his music is a testament to the enduring power of this song. The Streets of London is more than just a song; it is a powerful social commentary that has stood the test of time and continues to inspire and move audiences to this day.
In this thesis, I will explore the profound impact of The Streets of London and analyze the various elements that have contributed to its enduring popularity. The song’s lyrical content, musical style, and cultural significance will be examined, shedding light on its message and relevance in today’s society. Additionally, I will delve into the historical context of the song, highlighting the social and political climate that influenced its creation and reception.
The Streets of London is a poignant commentary on the harsh realities faced by the homeless in London during the late 1960s. The song’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of the struggles and hardships faced by those living on the streets, from the cold and hunger to the lack of shelter and human connection. McTell’s lyrics are simple yet powerful, as he uses emotive language to evoke a strong sense of empathy and compassion in the listener. Lines such as “have you seen the old man in the closed-down market, kicking up the paper with his worn out shoes” and “have you seen the old girl who walks the streets of London, dirt in her hair and her clothes in rags” paint a vivid image of the destitution and despair faced by the homeless in the city. The song’s chorus, “So how can you tell me you’re lonely, and say for you that the sun don’t shine? Let me take you by the hand and lead you through the streets of London, I’ll show you something to make you change your mind,” encapsulates the song’s message of empathy and understanding, urging the listener to see the humanity in those often ignored and marginalized by society.
In addition to its compelling lyrics, The Streets of London is also renowned for its musical style. The song’s simple yet haunting melody, accompanied by McTell’s soft and melancholic vocals, creates an emotional and somber atmosphere that perfectly complements the song’s message. The use of the acoustic guitar as the sole instrument in the song adds to its raw and intimate quality, making it a powerful and moving listening experience. McTell’s unique fingerpicking style, influenced by his admiration for American blues musicians, adds a distinct and captivating element to the song. This combination of lyrical depth and musical simplicity has made The Streets of London a timeless classic, with its message still resonating with listeners today.
Furthermore, The Streets of London has a significant cultural and historical significance. The song was written and released during a time of great social and political change in London. The late 1960s saw a rise in student activism and protests against social and economic inequality, which was reflected in the song’s lyrics and message of empathy and social awareness. The song was also released during a period of economic recession and rising homelessness in London, making it a powerful commentary on the struggles faced by the city’s most vulnerable citizens. The song’s release coincided with the emergence of the folk music revival in Britain, and its success played a significant role in popularizing the genre and its social and political themes.
In conclusion, The Streets of London is a timeless song that continues to resonate with listeners all over the world. Its powerful lyrics, captivating melody, and cultural significance have made it an enduring anthem for the marginalized and oppressed. McTell’s ability to capture the essence of the human experience and evoke empathy and understanding through his music is a testament to the enduring power of this song. The Streets of London is more than just a song; it is a powerful social commentary that has stood the test of time and continues to inspire and move audiences to this day.
The PDF is for standard tuning on guitar and has the chords.
streets_of_london_guitar_tab_with_chords.pdf |
Now included is the tenor guitar / mandola tab in CGDA Tuning.
Here's The Piano Sheet Music With The Tin Whistle Notes
Please note - There's a low c note where it says ''so'' you should play a D instead as you can't really get them low c notes on a whistle so the D will do fine. Below is another version of the sheet music that's a little bit higher.