I’m not exactly sure how it came to pass that Cripple Creek became the sonic rite of passage of the banjo player, the song more banjo players learn first than any other.
It’s not the simplest song you could play.
Nor is it the most popular amongst the general public, especially in this day and age.
Nonetheless, Cripple Creek endures.
And if you’re in possession of a banjo, and make claims to be able to play said banjo, than it is assumed that Cripple Creek will be amongst your stable of tunes, no matter the size of that stable.
(RELATED: Click here to see all the songs and tunes currently inside of “The Vault,” the Ultimate Clawhammer Song Library).
And while it may no longer be recognized by most outside the world of the banjo, it’s position in the top 10 – a position granted by popular vote – is a sign that it is still beloved by ears of all shapes and sizes.
Cripple Creek, Brainjo level 2 (video demo)
Cripple Creek, Brainjo level 3
For more on how to read the tabs, check out this complete guide to reading banjo tabs.
To learn more about the Breakthrough Banjo course, where you’ll find hundreds more tabs and videos like the ones above, with arrangements tailored to all levels, then click below: