It's Friday Lyrics And Guitar Chords by Derek Ryan
Recorded by Derek Ryan. Released a few years ago by Dean Brody and Great Big Sea. The chords have being simplified and are not in the same key as Derek Ryan, a real feel good and happy song to start the weekend off. Back to the list of Derek Ryan Songs that are on this site . PDF file of the guitar chords included.
{G]There’s a place in town where [C]we all hang [G]out
Where [G]the country girls go and the [D]boys get loud
Yeah [G]when the whistle blows we make [C]quite the [Em]]crowd
When the [G]sun sets low on [D]Fri[G]day
From[G] the pubs in Ireland to [C]Tennes[G]see
The [G]mainland country to the[D]Hazel Tree
And [G]every little town here [C]in be[Em]tween
We know [G]how to party on [D]Fri[G]day
Chorus
[C]And the band plays [G]on and the [C]taps they [D]flow
The [Em]boss man’s yelling but we’ve [A]all gone [D]home
A [G]come a Monday morning I [C]will a[Em]tone
But to[G]night ain’t Monday it’s [D]Fri[G]day
Well I [G]have my job but I love [C]my [G]friends
So [G]you know where I’ll be when the [D]work week ends
At the [G]little country tavern just [C]around the [Em]bend
When the [G]sun sets low on [D]Fri[G]day
There’s a place in town where we all hang out
Where the country girls go and the boys get loud
Yeah when the whistle blows we make quite the crowd
When the sun sets low on Friday
And the band plays on and the taps they flow
The boss man’s yelling but we’ve all gone home
A come a Monday morning I will atone
But tonight ain’t Monday it’s Friday
But tonight ain’t Monday it’s Friday
But tonight ain’t Monday it’s Friday
Where [G]the country girls go and the [D]boys get loud
Yeah [G]when the whistle blows we make [C]quite the [Em]]crowd
When the [G]sun sets low on [D]Fri[G]day
From[G] the pubs in Ireland to [C]Tennes[G]see
The [G]mainland country to the[D]Hazel Tree
And [G]every little town here [C]in be[Em]tween
We know [G]how to party on [D]Fri[G]day
Chorus
[C]And the band plays [G]on and the [C]taps they [D]flow
The [Em]boss man’s yelling but we’ve [A]all gone [D]home
A [G]come a Monday morning I [C]will a[Em]tone
But to[G]night ain’t Monday it’s [D]Fri[G]day
Well I [G]have my job but I love [C]my [G]friends
So [G]you know where I’ll be when the [D]work week ends
At the [G]little country tavern just [C]around the [Em]bend
When the [G]sun sets low on [D]Fri[G]day
There’s a place in town where we all hang out
Where the country girls go and the boys get loud
Yeah when the whistle blows we make quite the crowd
When the sun sets low on Friday
And the band plays on and the taps they flow
The boss man’s yelling but we’ve all gone home
A come a Monday morning I will atone
But tonight ain’t Monday it’s Friday
But tonight ain’t Monday it’s Friday
But tonight ain’t Monday it’s Friday
🎸 Guitar Tutorial: How to Play "It's Friday" like Derek Ryan"It's Friday" is a high-energy, feel-good anthem. While the chords are relatively simple, the "magic" of the song is in the rhythm and the smooth transitions.
1. The Core ChordsTo play this version, you’ll need five basic open chords:
Pro Tip: On the first Down stroke, try to hit only the top 2-3 strings (the bass notes). On the Up strokes, hit the thinner strings. This creates a "boom-chicka" sound common in Irish country music.
3. Mastering the "Em" TransitionIn the chorus, there is a quick transition that often trips up beginners: [G] A come a Monday morning I [C] will a[Em]tone
The Trick: When moving from C Major to Em, keep your Middle Finger anchored!
1. The Core ChordsTo play this version, you’ll need five basic open chords:
- G Major (The "Home" chord)
- C Major (The "Lift")
- D Major (The "Resolution")
- Em (The "Soulful" transition)
- A Major (The "Bridge" power-up)
Pro Tip: On the first Down stroke, try to hit only the top 2-3 strings (the bass notes). On the Up strokes, hit the thinner strings. This creates a "boom-chicka" sound common in Irish country music.
3. Mastering the "Em" TransitionIn the chorus, there is a quick transition that often trips up beginners: [G] A come a Monday morning I [C] will a[Em]tone
The Trick: When moving from C Major to Em, keep your Middle Finger anchored!
- Your middle finger is already on the 2nd fret of the D-string for the C chord.
- Simply lift your other fingers and drop your index finger onto the 2nd fret of the A-string.
- Keeping that "anchor" makes the switch lightning-fast and keeps the rhythm steady.
- The Verse: Keep your strumming light and palm-muted (rest the side of your hand on the strings near the bridge) to build tension.
- The Chorus: Open up! Strum wider and louder to mimic the "taps flowing" and the "band playing on."
| it’s_friday_–_derek_ryan_chords.pdf |
Video Spotlight: "It’s Friday" – The Anthem of the Weekend
The official music video for "It’s Friday" is a quintessential piece of modern Irish country history. Released in 2012 as the lead single from Derek’s breakout album Dreamers & Believers, the video captures the infectious, high-energy "get up and go" spirit that Derek discussed in his interview with Alex Belfield.
The Background:
While originally written by Canadian country star Dean Brody, Derek Ryan’s version reimagined the track for the Irish dance hall scene. Filmed on location with a crowd of enthusiastic fans and his full touring band, the video highlights Derek’s transition from pop star to "the golden boy of Irish country."
Why It Works (The Review):
What makes this video—and the song itself—a staple for guitarists and folk fans is its relatability. It’s a blue-collar anthem that celebrates the relief of the work week ending. Musically, it’s a masterclass in "Country & Irish" fusion:
Artist Derek Ryan
Album Dreamers & Believers (2012)
GenreIrish Country / Folk-Pop
Chords Used G, C, D, Em, A
Fun Fact Filmed on location with actual fans!
The Background:
While originally written by Canadian country star Dean Brody, Derek Ryan’s version reimagined the track for the Irish dance hall scene. Filmed on location with a crowd of enthusiastic fans and his full touring band, the video highlights Derek’s transition from pop star to "the golden boy of Irish country."
Why It Works (The Review):
What makes this video—and the song itself—a staple for guitarists and folk fans is its relatability. It’s a blue-collar anthem that celebrates the relief of the work week ending. Musically, it’s a masterclass in "Country & Irish" fusion:
- The Rhythm: A driving beat that makes it impossible not to tap your foot.
- The Visuals: Authentic, unpretentious, and community-focused—perfectly matching Derek’s "nice guy" persona.
- The Hook: A massive, sing-along chorus that has made it one of the most requested songs at Irish weddings and festivals for over a decade.
Artist Derek Ryan
Album Dreamers & Believers (2012)
GenreIrish Country / Folk-Pop
Chords Used G, C, D, Em, A
Fun Fact Filmed on location with actual fans!
Read our deep-dive interview with Irish country music star Derek Ryan. From his D-Side boy band days to his chart-topping solo career and UK tour, Derek talks original music, his hit "God's Plan," and his musical philosophy.
Derek Ryan Interview: Redefining Irish Country Music with Alex Belfield
Derek Ryan is a name synonymous with the modern resurgence of Irish country music. In this exclusive sit-down with Alex Belfield of Celebrity Radio, Derek opens up about his journey from boy band stardom to becoming a solo powerhouse, his 2015 UK tour, and why he chose to "take a chance" on original music when everyone told him not to.
From Pop Star to Country King: The D-Side Legacy, Long before he was filling theaters as a solo artist, Derek Ryan was a member of the successful boy band D-Side. Signed to Warner at just 17, Derek experienced the highs and lows of the pop industry—from recording in America to performing on Top of the Pops.
However, Derek admits that the pop world lacked the creative freedom he craved.
"The one thing I didn’t like about it was the control factor. You were pretty much told what your next single was going to be. Here I am now, and I’m my own boss when it comes to everything."
Breaking the Mold: The Success of "God's Plan"One of the most significant turning points in Derek's career was his decision to release original material. In a genre often dominated by covers of American country classics, Derek’s debut single "God's Plan" was a risk.
The "Modern-Day Daniel O'Donnell"?Alex Belfield cheekily asks if Derek is the "modern-day Daniel O'Donnell," noting his massive appeal with female fans. While Derek laughs off the "sex symbol" label, he credits his success to the intimacy of his live shows—specifically his acoustic sets.
"For a lot of people, the acoustic set is the highlight," Derek says. "It’s very intimate. You can get across the lyrics and tell the story of the song. It focuses the audience."
Key Highlights of the Derek Ryan Interview
Feature Details Musical Style A blend of Country, Folk, Pop, and Irish Trad.
Early CareerF ormer member of the boy band D-Side.
Breakout Single"God's Plan" (Original Composition).
Live Approach High-energy full band sets mixed with intimate acoustic storytelling.
Philosophy Prioritizing song quality over "fake" promotion.
Why Derek Ryan Resonates with UK Audiences Derek’s music is often described as "uplifting." He intentionally infuses his tracks with "get up and go" energy, rooted in his Irish upbringing.
As he tours the UK, Derek remains humbled by his second chance at fame. Having seen the "glamorous slog" of the boy band era, he now appreciates every moment on stage. "I enjoy every big gig I do because it just might not happen again. I’m very privileged and lucky to be where I am."
Where to Follow Derek Ryan If you want to catch Derek Ryan live or listen to his latest album, you can find more information on his official channels:
Derek Ryan Interview: Redefining Irish Country Music with Alex Belfield
Derek Ryan is a name synonymous with the modern resurgence of Irish country music. In this exclusive sit-down with Alex Belfield of Celebrity Radio, Derek opens up about his journey from boy band stardom to becoming a solo powerhouse, his 2015 UK tour, and why he chose to "take a chance" on original music when everyone told him not to.
From Pop Star to Country King: The D-Side Legacy, Long before he was filling theaters as a solo artist, Derek Ryan was a member of the successful boy band D-Side. Signed to Warner at just 17, Derek experienced the highs and lows of the pop industry—from recording in America to performing on Top of the Pops.
However, Derek admits that the pop world lacked the creative freedom he craved.
"The one thing I didn’t like about it was the control factor. You were pretty much told what your next single was going to be. Here I am now, and I’m my own boss when it comes to everything."
Breaking the Mold: The Success of "God's Plan"One of the most significant turning points in Derek's career was his decision to release original material. In a genre often dominated by covers of American country classics, Derek’s debut single "God's Plan" was a risk.
- The Risk: Industry insiders warned him that audiences only wanted familiar songs.
- The Result: Derek followed his gut, and the song became a massive hit, defining his "stamp" on the Irish music scene.
The "Modern-Day Daniel O'Donnell"?Alex Belfield cheekily asks if Derek is the "modern-day Daniel O'Donnell," noting his massive appeal with female fans. While Derek laughs off the "sex symbol" label, he credits his success to the intimacy of his live shows—specifically his acoustic sets.
"For a lot of people, the acoustic set is the highlight," Derek says. "It’s very intimate. You can get across the lyrics and tell the story of the song. It focuses the audience."
Key Highlights of the Derek Ryan Interview
Feature Details Musical Style A blend of Country, Folk, Pop, and Irish Trad.
Early CareerF ormer member of the boy band D-Side.
Breakout Single"God's Plan" (Original Composition).
Live Approach High-energy full band sets mixed with intimate acoustic storytelling.
Philosophy Prioritizing song quality over "fake" promotion.
Why Derek Ryan Resonates with UK Audiences Derek’s music is often described as "uplifting." He intentionally infuses his tracks with "get up and go" energy, rooted in his Irish upbringing.
As he tours the UK, Derek remains humbled by his second chance at fame. Having seen the "glamorous slog" of the boy band era, he now appreciates every moment on stage. "I enjoy every big gig I do because it just might not happen again. I’m very privileged and lucky to be where I am."
Where to Follow Derek Ryan If you want to catch Derek Ryan live or listen to his latest album, you can find more information on his official channels:
- Official Website: DerekRyanMusic.com
- Twitter: @DerekRyanMusic
- Facebook: Derek Ryan Music
