WWW.AZCHORDS.COM | Taylor Swift - American Boy Chords | Ver. 1
A
American boy
E
living life as it goes
D
sitting on the fenceposts
A
living in the light
A
American boy
E
living in the real world
D E
trying to just to get the girl
A
tyring to survive
A E
The simple things in life are always new
D E
growing up on Sand Hill Avenue
A E
and mama makes her cookies and daddy's just
D E
the greatest living hero there ever was
A E D
nothing in the world will ever once destroy
E A
the hope of an american boy
E D E
Living off of bar tips, trying for relationships
A
looking for love
A E
Suddenly he finds, an american beauty
D E A
suddenly it hits she's, sent from above
A E
The simple things in life are always new
D E
growing up on Sand Hill avenue and
A E
Mama makes her cookies and daddy's just
D E
the greatest living hero that ever was and
A E D
Nothing in the world can ever once destroy
E A E D E A E D E
the dream of an american boy
A E
American boy, raising little babies
D E A
hearing daddy maybe, I'll be like you
A E
Suddenly life, seems just like a new dawn
D E A
this grown up, american boy
A E
The simple things in life are always new
D E
growing up on Grand View Avenue
A E
and mama makes her cookies and daddy's just
D E
the greatest living hero there ever was and
A E D E
nothing in the world will ever once destroy
A E D
No nothing in the world will ever once destroy
E A
the hope of an american boy
A E D E x2
How to play "American Boy" by Taylor Swift on guitar
This song employs a straightforward chord progression that is easy to pick up
for beginners, using the chords A, E, and D. It's a heartfelt tribute to
nostalgia and the simple joys of American life.
Chords Used:
A, E, D
Verse and Chorus Structure:
- The song begins with the chord A and follows a basic cycle of A, E, D, and
then back to A.
- This progression underpins the lyrics throughout the song, giving a solid
harmonic foundation that supports the narrative style of the lyrics.
Chorus:
- The chorus utilizes the same chords but places emphasis on the lyrical
content, "the hope of an american boy", which ties together the theme of
the song.
- Pay special attention to the transition between the chords to maintain the
rhythmic flow of the song.
Bridge:
- The bridge ("Living off of bar tips, trying for relationships") uses a
slightly more dynamic sequence of E, D, and A to depict the storyline
progression.
- This part should be played with a bit of an increase in dynamic to emphasize
the narrative peak of the song.
Strumming Pattern:
- A suggested strumming pattern for this song is:
Down, Down-Up, Up-Down-Up
- This strumming pattern provides a consistent rhythmic drive that complements
the storytelling nature of the song.
Common Mistakes:
- Not keeping a steady rhythm can disrupt the narrative flow. Use a metronome
or tap your foot to keep time if needed.
- Rushing through the chord changes. Each chord should be given its full
duration to resonate properly with the lyrics.
General Tips:
- Practice the chord transitions slowly at first to ensure smoothness and
accuracy.
- Focus on the storytelling aspect of the song. Your playing should enhance
the lyrical delivery, making each word clear and impactful.
- Sing along as you play once you are comfortable with the chord changes, to
better integrate the music and the lyrics.
Meaning of the Lyrics:
- "American Boy" captures the essence of American youth and the journey into
adulthood, reflecting on the simple, yet profound, aspects of everyday life.
It celebrates the idealistic and nostalgic elements of growing up in a
small town.
