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Key
C Major
Difficulty
Easy
Capo
None
Chords
C · G · Em · D
Tracy Chapman’s storytelling masterpiece pairs a hypnotic guitar riff with lyrics that paint vivid pictures. Four chords and a driving fingerpicking pattern create raw emotional power.
Fingerpicking Pattern (4/4 Time)
↓↑↓↑↓↑
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Tip: The intro riff uses a capo at the 2nd fret with a fingerpicking pattern on C and G shapes. Let the open strings ring together for that signature shimmering sound.
How to play
Step-by-Step Guide
1
Learn the four chords
You need C, G, Em, and D. With a capo on 2, these shapes produce the original key.
2
Master the intro riff
The fingerpicking pattern on C and G is what makes this song. Thumb alternates bass notes while fingers pick melody notes on top.
3
Feel the story
This song tells a complete story. Each verse paints a picture. Let the dynamics follow the narrative — quiet hope, growing urgency, resigned acceptance.
4
Add the vocal
The vocal delivery is intimate and conversational. Do not over-sing. Tell the story as if you are confiding in a close friend.
Lyrics & Chords
Full Song — Guitar Version
Verse 1
C
You got a fast car,
G Em
I want a ticket to anywhere.
D
Maybe we make a deal,
C G
Maybe together we can get somewhere.
Em D
Any place is better.
C G
Starting from zero got nothing to lose.
Em
Maybe we’ll make something,
D C G
Me myself, I got nothing to prove.
Chorus
C
You got a fast car,
G Em
Is it fast enough so we can fly away?
D
We gotta make a decision,
C G
Leave tonight or live and die this way.
Verse 2
C G
So remember when we were driving, driving in your car,
Em D
Speed so fast I felt like I was drunk.
C G
City lights lay out before us,
Em D
And your arm felt nice wrapped round my shoulder.
C G
And I had a feeling that I belonged.
Em D
I had a feeling I could be someone,
C G
Be someone, be someone.
Verse 3
C
You got a fast car,
G Em
We go cruising, entertain ourselves.
D
You still ain’t got a job,
C G
And I work in a market as a checkout girl.
Em D
I know things will get better.
C G
You’ll find work and I’ll get promoted.
Em
We’ll move out of the shelter,
D C G
Buy a big house and live in the suburbs.
Verse 4
C
You got a fast car,
G Em
Is it fast enough so you can fly away?
D
You gotta make a decision,
C G
Leave tonight or live and die this way.
Practice tip: The fingerpicking intro takes time to master but it is incredibly rewarding. Practice it 15 minutes a day for two weeks and you will have it forever.