Runnin’ Down A Dream by Tom Petty – Ukulele Chords

by Per Kjeller February 10, 2026

written by Per Kjeller February 10, 2026

Runnin’ Down A Dream Ukulele Chords – Tom Petty. This song uses the chords: E, Dsus2, G, D, A. You can change the key for free, as needed.

Runnin’ Down A Dream Ukulele Chords – Tom Petty

(INTRO LINE: E-B-E-Bb-E-A-E-G-E)

INTRO:

E X4
VERSE 1:

It was a Ebeautiful day, the sun beat down
I had the Dsus2radio on, I was Edrivin’
ETrees went by, me and Del were singin’ Little Dsus2Runaway
I was Eflyin’

CHORUS 1:
Yeah, Drunnin’ Gdown a Edream
That never would Gcome to Ame
DWorkin’ on a GmysteEry, goin’ wherGever it Aleads
ARunnin’ Gdown a Edream

VERSE 2:

I Efelt so good, like anything was possible
Hit Dsus2cruise control and rubbed my Eeyes
The Elast three days the rain was unstoppable
It was Dsus2always cold, no sunEshine
CHORUS 2:
Yeah, Drunnin’ Gdown a Edream
That never would Gcome to Ame
DWorkin’ on a GmysteEry, goin’ wherGever it Aleads
ARunnin’ Gdown a Edream

BRIDGE:

OoE5/Co OoE5/Do OoE5o x2
VERSE 3:
EI rolled on, the sky grew dark
I put the Dpedal down to make some Etime
There’s Esomething good waitin’ down this road
I’m Dpickin’ up whatever’s Emine
CHORUS 3:
I’m Drunnin’ Gdown a Edream
That never would Gcome to Ame
DWorkin’ on a GmysteEry, goin’ wherGever it Aleads
ARunnin’ Gdown a Edream
Yeah, Drunnin’ Gdown a Edream
That never would Gcome to Ame
DWorkin’ on a GmysteEry, goin’ wherGever it Aleads
ARunnin’ Gdown a Edream

OUTRO:

OoE5o OoE5E5/Do OoE5/CE5o …fade out…

Check out more ukulele songs here.

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“Runnin’ Down A Dream” History:

🎸 Basic Facts

Artist: Tom Petty (written with Mike Campbell and Jeff Lynne)
Album: Full Moon Fever (Tom Petty’s first solo album)
Released: July 29, 1989 as the second single from the album
Genre: Heartland rock / classic rock
Length: ~4:25
Label: MCA Records

📈 Chart Performance & Legacy

The song reached #23 on both the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 and the Canadian charts and hit #1 on Billboard’s Mainstream Rock Tracks chart.
Over time it became a classic rock radio staple and one of Petty’s most recognizable songs.

🎵 What the Song Is About

“Runnin’ Down a Dream” is built around a driving, energetic guitar riff and lyrics that metaphorically depict chasing one’s ambitions — the open road representing freedom, possibility, and the pursuit of goals. The protagonist describes a long drive with the radio on, embracing motion and the journey itself.

A notable lyrical moment references Del Shannon’s hit “Runaway”, with Petty singing about “me and Del were singin’ ‘Little Runaway’,” paying homage to musical roots and influences.

🎸 Music & Production

The song’s fuzz guitar riff gives it a raw, forward-moving feel — almost like motion itself driving the track.
The closing guitar solo — played by Mike Campbell — was recorded mostly in one take.
Production was handled by Jeff Lynne, Tom Petty, and Mike Campbell, giving it both polish and classic rock punch.

🎥 Music Video

The official video mixes animation inspired by Little Nemo in Slumberland with surreal visuals, reflecting the song’s dreamlike energy.

🧠 In Popular Culture

This track has appeared widely beyond its album release:

Featured in video games like Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas (on the fictional rock station K-DST).
Used in NBA Finals broadcasts and in sports promos over the years.
Performed at major events, including the Super Bowl XLII halftime show.
Included in film soundtracks, e.g., Larry Crowne (2011).

🪩 Why It Matters

The song has endured because it captures a universal sentiment — the thrill of pursuit and the freedom of the open road — making it resonate with listeners as an anthem for dreams and motion.