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Key
Am Major
Difficulty
Beginner
Capo
None
Chords
Am · G · C
Vance Joy’s indie hit took the world by storm with its catchy ukulele-driven melody. On guitar, the three minor and major chords create a breezy, infectious groove.
Strumming Pattern (4/4 Time)
↓↑↓↑
1234
Tip: This song sounds great on both guitar and ukulele. The quick muted strum between chords gives it that percussive island vibe.
How to play
Step-by-Step Guide
1
Learn the three chords
You need Am, G, and C. Three of the most common open chords in music.
2
Get the tempo
This song moves quickly. The chord changes come fast — Am to G is only two beats. Practice the switches until they are instant.
3
Learn the pattern
The whole song is Am-G-C. Two beats on Am, two beats on G, four beats on C. This pattern repeats through verse and chorus.
4
Make it bounce
Add a slight mute between chords by lifting your fretting hand briefly. This percussive technique gives the song its characteristic bounce.
Lyrics & Chords
Full Song — Guitar Version
Verse 1
Am G C
I was scared of dentists and the dark
Am G C
I was scared of pretty girls and starting conversations
Am G C
Oh, all my friends are turning green
Am G C
You’re the magician’s assistant in their dream
Chorus
Am G C
Oh lady, running down to the riptide
Am
Taken away to the dark side
G C
I wanna be your left-hand man
Practice tip: The Am-G transition is the trickiest since it comes so fast. Practice just Am-G-Am-G at full speed until it is completely automatic before adding the C.