G
D7
Em
A
A7
D
D6
C
B7
It Doesn't Matter Anymore
Buddy Holly
About the Original
Buddy Holly’s “It Doesn’t Matter Anymore” is a classic rock-and-roll ballad with a light, rhythmic feel. The original features a smooth, swinging rhythm and simple, clear chord progressions, making it approachable for beginners.
Chord Progression and Transitions
The main chords used are G, D7, Em, A, A7, D, D6, C, and B7. Most verses alternate between G and D7, which are both open-position chords and ideal for beginners. The bridge introduces Em, A, A7, D, and D6. Practice transitioning between these chords, especially D7 to G and A to A7, to keep the song flowing smoothly. The D6 chord can be played by adding the B note (2nd fret, 1st string) to a D chord shape.
Strumming Pattern and Rhythm
Aim for a light, bouncy strumming pattern, such as:
Down, down-up, up-down-up
This fits the upbeat, rhythmic feel of Buddy Holly’s original version. Keep your strumming hand relaxed and focus on maintaining a steady tempo.
Techniques and Tips
- For a smoother sound, let the chords ring out and avoid muting strings unintentionally.
- If B7 or D6 are tricky, substitute with B minor or D major until comfortable.
- Practice the intro and outro a few times to get used to starting and ending confidently.
- Listen to the original to feel the swing and match your strumming accordingly.
Intro
G D7 G G D7 G
Verse 1G There you go and baby, here am I well youD7 left me here so I could sit and cry well
G Golly gee what have you done to me well ID7 guess it doesn't matter anyG more
Verse 2G Do you remember baby, last September how youD7 held me tight each and every night well
G Oopsy-daisy how you drove me crazy but ID7 guess it doesn't matter anyG more
BridgeEm There's no use in me a cryin' I'veG done everything and now I'm sick of tryin'
I'veA thrown away my nights and wasted all myA7 days overD youD7 ouD6 ouD ou
Verse 3G Well you go your way and I'll go mineD7 Now and forever till the end of time I'll find
G Somebody new and baby we'll say we're through andD7 you won't matter anyG more
InstrumentalG D G G C G B7
BridgeEm There's no use in me a cryin' I'veG done everything and now I'm sick of tryin'
I'veA thrown away my nights and wasted all myA7 days overD youD7 ouD6 ouD ou
Verse 4G Well you go your way and I'll go mineD7 Now and forever till the end of time I'll find
G Somebody new and baby we'll say we're through andD7 you won't matter anyG more
OutroD7 You won't matter anyG moreG D7 G D7 G