Old MacDonald Had A Farm E-I-E-I-O Nursery Song For Kids
Old MacDonald Had A Farm
[C] Old MacDonald [F] had a [C] farm.
[C] E-I-[G] E-I-[C] O.
And on that farm he [F] had a [C] cow.
[C] E-I-[G] E-I-[C] O.
[C] With a moo-moo here
And a moo-moo there.
Here a moo, there a moo,
Everywhere a moo-moo.
[C] Old MacDonald [F] had a [C] farm.
[C] E-I-[G] E-I-[C] O.
‘Old MacDonald Had A Farm’ – A Catchy Tune With A Humble History
Strum along, ukulele buddies, because today we’re discovering the roots of this beloved childhood classic - Old MacDonald Had a Farm! Whether it’s ‘E-I-E-I-O’ sung in a crowded nursery or strummed on a ukulele during a sing-along, there is a rich history to this timeless rhyme. Let’s find out how such a simple song became an international sensation.
From Folk Music to Farmyard Fame
The tune behind Old MacDonald traces its ancestry back to traditional folk songs of the 18th and 19th centuries. It’s believed to have originated in England or Scotland, where farmers and shepherds spun songs to pass the time in the fields. But it wasn’t always about Old MacDonald! Early versions featured a character named “Old Macdougal” or even animals from different scenarios.
One of the earliest versions of the song appeared in the early 20th century under the title Old Macdougal Had a Farm, published in a 1917 songbook. Its quirky farmyard charm and repetitive structure made it an instant hit, easy to remember and impossible not to sing along to - just like the ukulele classics we all love!
The American Remix
As the melody crossed the Atlantic, the name ‘MacDonald’ became its standard, and the tune found a home in the oral traditions of America. It was during this time that the ‘E-I-E-I-O’ refrain became synonymous with the song—likely added because of its catchy, rhythmic appeal. And let’s admit it, the vowels practically beg to be sung with gusto!
The song’s popularity surged in the United States during the 20th century, thanks to its inclusion in children’s music collections, radio broadcasts, and even early cartoons. Old MacDonald became the ultimate sing-along staple, from classrooms to campfires.
Why ‘Old MacDonald’ Is Perfect for Ukulele
Now, let’s talk ukulele (because we always do)! The repetitive chord structure of Old MacDonald Had a Farm makes it a fantastic choice for beginners. Whether you’re simply strumming C-F-G or adding jazzy embellishments, this song is ridiculously fun to play.
Want to spice it up? Incorporate animal sound effects or challenge yourself to speed up the tempo as the song progresses. It’s a crowd-pleaser every time - especially if the crowd includes kids, or anyone who secretly loves farm animal impressions.
Universal Appeal
Today, Old MacDonald is more than a nursery rhyme; it’s a cultural phenomenon. Translated into dozens of languages, the song resonates with young and old alike. And just like the ukulele, it brings people together, creating joy and laughter wherever it’s played.
So next time you strum your uke, why not try Old MacDonald and his musical farm? It’s a little piece of history, a whole lot of fun, and a reminder that the simplest tunes often have the most enduring charm.
Happy Strumming 😊
Visit our Ukulele Song List to find more songs to play
The chord arrangement shown above is the author's own work as an interpretation of the song. This song sheet may only be used for educational purposes.
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