Banks of the Ohio
Public domain - full karaoke IMMHA-L003
Credit: Traditional · 19th c.
Origin: American murder ballad (Roud 157, Laws F5); first recorded 1927.
Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Banks_of_the_Ohio
Original scan on X: https://x.com/IMMHACAL/status/1940935291239649617
Chords as printed on the original song sheet. Key of C, 3/4 time (handwritten sheet, page 2).
C G7 I asked my love to take a walk C To take a walk, just a little ol' walk C7 F Down beside where the waters flow C G7 C Down by the banks of the Ohio [Chorus] C G7 And only say that you'll be mine C And in no other's arms entwine C7 F Down beside where the waters flow C G7 C Down by the banks of the Ohio C G7 I held a knife against her breast C As into my arms she pressed. C7 F She cried, "Oh Willie, don't murder me. C G7 C I'm not prepared for eternity" (chorus) C G7 I started home 'tween twelve and one C I cried "my God, what have I done. C7 F I've killed the only woman I loved. C G7 C Because she would not be my bride." (chorus) C G7 The very next morning, 'bout half past four. C There came a knock upon my door C7 F The sheriff said, "Willie, come on let's go, C G7 C Down by the banks of the Ohio." (chorus)