Never On A Sunday

Notes

“Never On A Sunday” (originally the Greek song Ta Pediá tou Pireá) is a bright, bouncy tune that works perfectly in the key of G. It primarily uses a I – V – IV (G, D7, C) structure, which is very common in traditional folk and pop arrangements.

Here are the chords and the basic structure:

Key of G Major

• G (I)

• D7 (V7)

• C (IV)

Basic Chord Progression

Verse: The verse follows a repetitive “call and response” pattern.

[G] Oh, you can kiss me on a Monday, A Monday, a Monday is [D7] very, very good. Or you can kiss me on a Tuesday, A Tuesday, a Tuesday, in [G] fact I wish you would.

Chorus: The chorus often moves to the “IV” chord (C) for a little bit of lift.

[D7] Most any [G] day, you can [D7] be my guest, Any [C] day you [D7] say, but my [G] day of rest. [D7] Just name the [G] day that you [D7] like the best, Only [C] stay a**[D7]**way on my [G] day of rest.

Tips for Playing

• The Rhythm: The song is usually played with a jaunty, upbeat 4/4 or 2/2 feel. Think of a brisk walking pace.

• The “Greek” Sound: If you’re playing this on a stringed instrument like a mandolin or guitar, try using a bit of a “tremolo” on the sustained notes of the melody to mimic the sound of a Greek bouzouki.

• Simplification: If the D7 feels too busy in the chorus, you can often just hang on the D major chord, though the D7 provides that classic “resolution” back to G.