Good Riddance (Time of Your Life) Chords

Gtap to play
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Key
G
Difficulty
Easy
Capo
None
Chords
G · C · D

Good Riddance (Time of Your Life) Chords – Guitar

Gtap to play
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Key
G
Difficulty
Easy
Tuning
G-C-E-A
Chords
G · C · D

Good Riddance (Time of Your Life) Chords – Ukulele

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Key
G
Difficulty
Easy
Left Hand
Root notes
Chords
G · C · D

Good Riddance (Time of Your Life) Chords – Piano

Gtap to play
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Key
G
Difficulty
Easy
Tuning
gDGBD (Open G)
Chords
G · C · D

Good Riddance (Time of Your Life) Chords – Banjo

Gtap to play
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Key
G
Difficulty
Easy
Tuning
G-D-A-E
Chords
G · C · D

Good Riddance (Time of Your Life) Chords – Mandolin

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Key
G
Difficulty
Easy
Harp Key
C Diatonic
Chords
G · C · D

Good Riddance (Time of Your Life) Chords – Harmonica

Green Day’s acoustic departure became one of the defining songs of a generation. Played at graduations and farewells worldwide, it turns three chords into pure nostalgia.

Chords used: G, C, D  ·  Key: G  ·  Difficulty: Easy  ·  More 3-chord songs →

Strumming Pattern (4/4 Time)
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Tip: The intro uses a fingerpicked G chord with a descending bass line. Walk the bass from G (3rd fret, 6th string) down to F# (2nd fret) to E (open).

How to play

Step-by-Step Guide


1
Learn the three chords
You need G, C, and D. The verse uses G-C-D-G. Simple and effective.

2
Master the intro
The fingerpicked intro is iconic. It uses G with a walking bass line. Take your time learning it — it sets the mood for the whole song.

3
Build the dynamics
Start softly for verse 1, build slightly for verse 2, and let the final chorus ring out with full emotion.

4
Make it meaningful
This is a song about reflection and farewell. Play it at the right moment and it becomes deeply personal.

Chords & Structure

Full Song — Guitar Version

Verse 1

 
G – C – D (×2)
 

Chorus

 
Em – D – C – G (×2)
Em – G – Em
D
Em – G – C – D – G
 

Practice tip: Learn this song before your next gathering with friends. When the moment is right — a farewell, a celebration, a quiet night — play it. Some songs are meant for specific moments.

Frequently Asked Questions

What chords do you need to play "Good Riddance (Time of Your Life)"?

You need 3 easy-friendly chords: G, C and D.

Is "Good Riddance (Time of Your Life)" easy to play on guitar?

It is rated easy and uses only 3 chords in the key of G, making it a good choice for players at that level.

What key is "Good Riddance (Time of Your Life)" in?

It is in the key of G.

Who wrote "Good Riddance (Time of Your Life)"?

It was written by Green Day.