WWW.AZCHORDS.COM | Taylor Swift - Better Off Chords | Ver. 1
No Capo
Intro:
D A Em G
Verse 1:
D A Em
Live down the street in a broken down house
G
And a car up on blocks in the driveway
D A Em
The moment we meet, there was never a doubt
G
That we won't forget this Sunday
Em G Em
It starts with a smile, and we walk a few miles
G A
And it all leads to this - our first kiss
Chorus:
D
All my friends are saying
A
Girl, what are you thinking?
Em G
You're better off, you're better off without him
D
Find yourself another
A
Girl, that boy is trouble
Em G
You're better off, you're better off
Em G* A*
They can talk forever, they just don't know better
D A Em G
Verse 2:
D A Em
We drive around town in a rusty old truck
G
Somehow it feels like we're flying
D A
Don't wanna come down
Em
But they make it so tough
G
'Cause everyone we know is trying
Em G Em
To push us apart hide it down in our hearts
G* A*
And they get what they want cause you're gone
Chorus:
D
All my friends are saying
A
Girl, why are you crying?
Em G
You're better off, you're better off without him
D
Find yourself another
A
Girl, that boy is trouble
Em G
You're better off, you're better off
Em G* A*
Well, they can talk forever, they just don't know better
D A Em G
Verse 3:
D A
You come to my door
Em
In the pouring rain
G
We know what we don't have to say
D A Em
You hand me a rose and a note that says
G
We don't have to do things their way
Chorus:
D
All my friends are saying
A
Girl, what are you thinking?
Em G
You're better off, you're better off without him
D
Find yourself another
A
Girl, that boy is trouble
Em G
You're better off, you're better off
Em G* A*
Well, they can talk forever, they just don't know better
Outro:
D A Em G D
How to play "Better Off" by Taylor Swift on guitar
Intro and Chorus Chord Progression:
- The song uses a simple chord progression: D, A, Em, G.
- Play each chord with a clean and clear strum, focusing on consistent timing.
Verse Structure:
- Use the same chords as the intro: D, A, Em, G.
- For dynamics, play softer in the verses to contrast with the louder chorus.
Chord Changes:
- Practice transitioning smoothly between all chords.
- Common mistake: rushing the transition between Em and G, which can
disrupt rhythm.
Strumming Pattern:
- Use a basic down-up strumming pattern.
- Emphasize the downstroke on the first beat of each bar for a strong
rhythmic feel.
Chorus Focus:
- The chorus adds an emotional peak, so increase your strumming intensity here.
- Maintain clear articulation of each chord to keep the texture of the song.
Bridge and Special Chords:
- Notice the use of G* and A* in the chorus, indicating slight variations
or embellishments.
- Explore adding a sus4 or an added 9th to these chords for a richer sound.
Outro:
- Repeats the intro progression and fades out. Maintain the established
rhythm and dynamics.
Guitar Lesson Tips:
- Ensure your guitar is tuned to standard tuning before playing.
- Use a capo on the 1st fret if singing along to match Taylor Swift's original key.
Tutorial Commentary:
- "Better Off" by Taylor Swift features a narrative of personal reflection
and decision in relationships.
- The straightforward chord progression makes it an excellent song for
beginners to practice.
Lyrics Meaning:
- The song discusses the protagonist's realization of being better off without
a troubling relationship, despite the contrary opinions of friends.