Gold Watch and Chain
beginner
Gold Watch and Chain
Carter Family
Doc Watson
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Jam Along
Chord Chart
A
GG
GG
DD
DD
AA
AA
DD
DD
GG
GG
DD
DD
AA
AA
DD
DD
Chords used:
A
D
G
Lyrics
Darling, how can I stay here without you
I have nothing to cheer my poor heart
This old world would seem sad, love, without you
Tell me now that we're never to part
I will pawn you my gold watch and chain, love
I will pawn you my gold diamond ring
I will pawn you this heart in my bosom
Only say that you'll love me again
Take back all the gifts you have given
But a ring and a lock of your hair
And a card with your picture upon it
It's a face that is false, but is fair
Tell me why that you do not love me
Tell me why that your smile is not bright
Tell me why you have grown so cold-hearted
Is there no kiss for me, love, tonight
Demo Videos
About This Song
Gold Watch and Chain is a Carter Family classic from the 1930s that became a bluegrass standard through Doc Watson's influential recording. It's a slow, mournful song about a dying mother's last wishes, and its simple three-chord structure in D makes it accessible for newer players.
