​Banks Of The Ohio Banjo And Mandolin Tab

There are only 5 notes in total in this popular song. It's a traditional American folk song. Suitable for Irish Bouzouki in GDAE tuning. I have come across many version of the sheet music over the years for this song and every one of them have being different, not just the key, but the tune itself. I also heard many people sing it to different tunes, the main theme of the tune stays the same, but for some reason, dependent on who's doing the singing, it will be different. The notes worked out here are my own version from the way I used to sing it. [ Banjo / mandolin tab tuned GDAE ] 

​Banks of the Ohio piano sheet music / mandolin tab with chords

​letter notes suitable for piano, flute and mandolin.
All the notes in CAPITAL letters are the low ones up as far a the B note.
All the small letters are the high notes, past B.

Ebook of letter notes here for beginners .

Below Is Another Version Of Banks Of The Ohio In The Higher Key Of D Major

​Meaning of "Banks of the Ohio""Banks of the Ohio" is a traditional American murder ballad that tells a chilling story of love, jealousy, and tragic violence. It has been recorded by many artists, including Johnny Cash, Joan Baez, Olivia Newton-John, and Bill Monroe.

Themes and Interpretation

1. Love Turned to Tragedy
   
   • The song is sung from the perspective of a man who invites his lover for a walk along the Ohio River.
   • He proposes marriage, but when she rejects him, he murders her in a fit of jealousy.
2. Regret and Guilt
   
   • After committing the crime, the narrator expresses sorrow and regret, as seen in versions where he says, "I plunged a knife into her breast" and laments her fate.
   • Despite his crime, he shows no real redemption, only sadness over his actions.
3. The Dark Side of Folk Ballads
   
   • Like many murder ballads in folk and country traditions (e.g., Omie Wise, Knoxville Girl), this song reflects real-life themes of domestic violence, betrayal, and fatal obsession.

Musical Style and Impact

• Originally from the 19th century, the song has been performed in folk, bluegrass, and country styles.
• The melancholic melody contrasts with the grim lyrics, making it haunting yet beautiful.
• Artists like Olivia Newton-John gave it a softer, more reflective tone, while bluegrass versions are more eerie and direct.

Cultural and Historical Significance

• The song remains an important part of American folk music, demonstrating how traditional ballads tell stories of both love and tragedy.
• It serves as a reminder of the darker themes often found in early folk and Appalachian music.