Ukulele Blues: A New, Improved Song to Learn About the Oo-koo-leh-leh by Ms. Christina

Ms. Christina’s ukulele complains about being misunderstood and explains a bit about itself in her original song, “Ukulele Blues.”

NOTE: Previous versions of this song included the English pronunciation “Yoo-kuh-lay-lee.” After learning from several ukulele players from Hawaii—including ‪@roseoyamotmusic‬ — I am now solely using the Hawaiian pronunciation, “Oo-koo-leh-leh.” Why? Because there is no “yuh” sound in Hawaiian, and since it’s a dying language, I want to respect it and do my part to keep it alive!

Chords:
A7, D7, E7 (with toggling between maj A/A7 and maj D/D7 in chorus)

Lyrics:
1. [A7] I know I’m small
I bring you joy
But just because I’m fun to play
Does not make me a toy
—–
Chorus:
Got the [D7] ukulele blues
Got the [A7] ukulele blues
I am [E7] so misunderstood
Nobody [D7] knows me like they should
Got the [A7] ukulele blues
—–
Chorus
—–
2. [A7] I don’t dispute
That I am cute
But I am not a small guitar
I’m actually a lute
—–
Chorus
—–
3. [A7] I’m made of wood
I got four strings
I got this little case
But I am not a violin
—–
Chorus
—–
4. [A7] Don’t need no stage
Don’t need no choir
Play me at the beach at night
Arou-ou-ound the fire.
—–
Chorus
—–
5. [A7] I’m not lyin’
I’m Hawaiian
Strummin on these nylon strings
Is so-o satisfyin’
—–
Final Chorus:
Got the ukulele blues x2
I am so misunderstood
Nobody knows me like they should
—–
[E7] Listen to my song
And [D7] you won’t get me wrong
—–
[E7] That’s my testament
Now you [D7] know this instrument
—–
No more [A7] ukulele blues!