D
A
A7
G
Itsy Bitsy Teenie Weenie Yellow Polka Dot Bikini
Bryan Hyland
Bryan Hyland’s 1960 hit "Itsy Bitsy Teenie Weenie Yellow Polka Dot Bikini" is a lighthearted pop song with a classic catchy melody. The original version is upbeat, making it ideal for strumming along and singing with friends.
Chord Progression and Transitions
This song uses simple chords: D, A, A7, G, and D/A. All are beginner-friendly. Practice switching between D, A, and A7 as these changes happen frequently and quickly, especially in the chorus. The D/A chord is just a D chord with an A in the bass, but it’s fine for beginners to play a regular D chord if preferred.
Strumming Pattern
A basic strumming pattern that fits well is Down-Down-Up-Up-Down-Up per bar. For a more rhythmic, bouncy feel, try steady downstrokes in time with the song’s beat (Down-Down-Down-Down). During "bop bop" interludes, use muted strums (lightly touch the strings to create a percussive sound).
Tips for Beginners
Practice slow chord transitions, especially between D and A7. To make A7, simply lift your middle finger from the A chord. For the chorus, keep your strumming light and cheerful. Singing along helps keep the rhythm. Don’t worry about small mistakes—focus on keeping a steady beat and having fun!
Intro
D BopD/A bopD bopD bopA ba dum bum bum bop bop
Verse 1She was aD fraid to come out of theA7 locker
She was as nervous as sheA ee couldD be
She was afraid to come out of theG locker
She was aD fraid that someA7 body wouldD see
Chorus 1D It was anA itsy bitsyA7 teenie weenieD yellow polka-dot bikini
A That she wore for theD first time today
AnA itsy bitsyA7 teenie weenieD yellow polka-dot bikini
A So in the locker sheA7 wanted toD stay
InterludeD BopD/A bopD bopD bopA ba dum bum bum bop bop
Verse 2She was aD fraid to come out in theA7 open
And so a blanket aroundA her sheD wore
She was afraid to come out in theG open
And so sheD sat bundledA7 up on theD shore
Chorus 2D It was anA itsy bitsyA7 teenie weenieD yellow polka-dot bikini
A That she wore for theD first time today
AnA itsy bitsyA7 teenie weenieD yellow polka-dot bikini
A So in the blanket sheA7 wanted toD stay
InterludeD BopD/A bopD bopD bopA ba dum bum bum bop bop
Verse 3Now she is aD fraid to come out of theA7 water
And I wonder whatA she's gonnaD do
Now she's afraid to come out of theG water
And theD poor littleA7 girl's turningD blue
Final ChorusD It was anA itsy bitsyA7 teenie weenieD yellow polka-dot bikini
A That she wore for theD first time today
AnA itsy bitsyA7 teenie weenieD yellow polka-dot bikini
A So in the water sheA7 wanted toD stay
OutroFrom the locker to theA7 blanket
A From the blanket to theD shore
From the shore to theA7 water
A Guess there isn'tA7 anyD more