All Night Long: Train's Enduring Ukulele Hit 'train all night long'

'Play That Song,' as rendered by alternative rock band Train on their self-titled 1994 album, has become an enduring ukulele sing-along hit. But what makes this particular song so timeless? And how does it fare when strung up (literally) and played solo on a tiny four-stringed instrument?

The answer lies in the catchy, easy-to-follow chord progression that defines much of Train's music. Based around just six chords – Cm, Bb, Eb, Ab, Cm, and Bb – 'Play That Song' is deceptively simple yet incredibly infectious.

For ukulele players looking to master this classic tune without too much effort (pun intended), the chord progression breaks down as follows:

Verse:

Cm - G7 - A7 - F#dim

(Bass line: C-E-Bb)

Chorus:

Eb - Ab - Bb - Eb

(Emphasis on 1st and 3rd beats in each bar)

Bb |E|G |F|# |Ab |C|m |

(Cm) Play that song, the one (simplified to 'one')

That makes me go...

The repeated phrase structure of this chorus section – with its sing-along feel and simple chord progression – is ideal for ukulele players who enjoy belting out their favorite tunes solo. And let's not forget those iconic Train harmonies!

So grab your uke, plug in (if you can manage without!), crank up the volume, and get ready to 'Play That Song' all night long...

Train all night long