Taylor Swift - Better Off Chords

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.