Nine Pound Hammer

This is placeholder text. To change this content, double-click on the element and click Change Content.

Black and white photo of a woman holding a sledge hammer ready to hit a spike held by a man on a large rock. Stone wall in the background and a wooden pole near the woman.

A driving bluegrass standard, Nine Pound Hammer is perfectly suited for jam sessions of all sizes. With roots in American railroad worksongs, it was famously recorded by Merle Travis, whose version featured the song's signature walk-up bass line. As you learn this song, focus on developing a strong, driving rhythm and becoming comfortable with its classic melody.

Mandolin

Bass

Lead Vocal

Tenor Vocal

Baritone Vocal

Rhythm Guitar

Playback

0:00 / 0:00

Download PDF

Rhythm GuitarArtist Name

00:00 / 04:37

bassArtist Name

00:00 / 03:59

MandolinArtist Name

00:00 / 01:04

Lead VocalArtist Name

00:00 / 01:04

Tenor VocalArtist Name

00:00 / 01:04

Track NameArtist Name

00:00 / 01:04

Further Listening

Merle Travis - Listen for his distinctive guitar style.

Bill Monroe - Hear how the song works in a bluegrass setting.

Tony Rice - Pay attention to the guitar accompaniment and phrasing.

Doc Watson - Listen to the groove and pocket without a full band