roger whittaker

Hi nadine2 - That notation is called 'Nashville Numbers' and it indicates chords without specifying a particular key.  So, if you are playing in the key of C, then here are the chords:
1 = C
2m = Dm
3m = Em
4 = F
5 = G
57 = G7 (fifth chord, the seventh)
6m = Am
7 = B
Sometimes roman numerals are used (I, IIm, IIIm, IV, V, V7, VIm, VII).
This system is very useful once you understand the sequence of chords in each key.

Like any notational system, Nashville Numbers have their limitations.  But since most county songs don't use exotic 'jazz' chords this notation conveys the necessary info.

Here is a site that has lots of details on how this system works:
http://www.don-mclean.com/guitars/nashville1.asp

Hope this helps.  James

I've never heard of them refered to as "Nashville Numbers" but they are useful.  They allow you to play the song in any key. 

Study scales, and how they relate to how chords are structured if you want to have a good understanding of why the II is always minor, and the IV and V are major, etc.   It makes sense!