Key: F 72 BPM
Away in a Manger
Traditional
Chords: F Bb C C7
Transpose: 0
Size:
Strumming Pattern
[Verse 1]
F
Away in a manger
Bb F
No crib for a bed
C
The little Lord Jesus
F
Laid down his sweet head
F
The stars in the bright sky
Bb F
Looked down where he lay
C7
The little Lord Jesus
F
Asleep on the hay
[Verse 2]
F
The cattle are lowing
Bb F
The baby awakes
C
But little Lord Jesus
F
No crying he makes
F
I love thee Lord Jesus
Bb F
Look down from the sky
C7
And stay by my side
F
Until morning is nigh
[Verse 3]
F
Be near me Lord Jesus
Bb F
I ask thee to stay
C
Close by me forever
F
And love me I pray
F
Bless all the dear children
Bb F
In thy tender care
C7
And fit us for heaven
F
To live with thee there
💡 Tips
- • Play in 3/4 waltz time
- • Keep it soft and gentle like a lullaby
- • Beautiful Christmas carol
🎵 Did You Know?
- • First published in 1885
- • Author of words is unknown
- • Two different melodies are commonly used
⏱️ Practice with Metronome
Set to 72 BPM for this song
How to Play "Away in a Manger" on Ukulele
"Away in a Manger" by Traditional is one of the most popular songs to learn on ukulele, and for good reason — it uses just 4 simple chords (F, Bb, C, C7) and has a catchy strumming pattern that's perfect for intermediate players.
The song is played in the key of F at around 72 BPM. Focus on getting the chord transitions smooth before worrying about speed — the strumming pattern () will come naturally once your fingers know where to go.
Chord Breakdown
- F — Two fingers: 2nd fret G string, 1st fret E string
- Bb — Standard fingering
- C — The easiest chord — one finger on the 3rd fret of the A string
- C7 — Standard fingering
Once you've mastered this song, check out similar beginner songs like I'm Yours or Hey Soul Sister that use the same chord progression.