Cheap Trick’s “Surrender” is a classic power-pop anthem known for its infectious energy and sing-along choruses. The original features electric guitars with a crunchy tone and driving rhythm, which you can emulate even on acoustic guitar with energetic strumming.
## Chords and Progression
The song uses open chords: G, D, C, Em, F, and occasional F#.
Beginners should practice switching between G, D, and C, as these are the main chords in the verses. The chorus introduces Em, which is an easy transition from G.
## Strumming Pattern
A steady, driving eighth-note strumming works well: D D U U D U (D=down, U=up).
Keep your strumming hand moving to maintain energy, muting lightly with your palm for a punchier sound during verses if desired.
## Chord Transitions
Watch out for quick changes between D and C, especially in the chorus and between lines in the verses.
For the intro and interlude (E–F# and F–G), you can play simple barre or open chords, but keep the rhythm tight.
## Tips
Practice the chorus repeatedly, as it’s the heart of the song. Don’t worry about playing it fast at first—accuracy matters more than speed.
If F and F# are difficult, use simplified versions or focus on the main open chords until comfortable.
Sing along to match chord changes with lyrics, helping internalize the song’s flow.
IntroE E F# F#
E E F# F#
Verse 1G Mother told meD yes she told meC I'd meet girls likeG you
She also told meD Stay away you'llC never know what you'llG catch
C Just the otherD day I heard of aG soldier's falling off
SomeC IndonesianD junk that's goingG round
ChorusMommy's alright,Em daddy's alright, theyD just seem a littleC weird
SurG render, surEm render, butD don't give yourself aC way, ay, ay -C ay-ay
InterludeF F G G
F F G G
Verse 2G Father says yourD mother's right she'sC really up onG things
Before we marriedD mommy served in theC WACS in the PhilipG pines
NowC I had heard theD WACS recruitedG old maids for the war
ButC mommy isn'tD one of those, I'veG known her all these years
ChorusMommy's alright,Em daddy's alright, theyD just seem a littleC weird
SurG render, surEm render, butD don't give yourself aC way, ay, ay -C ay-ay
InterludeF F G G
F F G G
Verse 3G Whatever happened toD all this season'sC losers of theG year
Every time ID got to thinkingC where'd they disaG ppear
C Then I woke up,D mom and dad, areG rolling on the couch
C Rolling numbersD rock and rollin' gotG my Kiss records out
ChorusMommy's alright,Em daddy's alright, theyD just seem a littleC weird
SurG render, surEm render, butD don't give yourself aC way, ay, ay -C ay-ay
BridgeAG way-C ay-G ayD
AG way-C ay-G ayD
OutroG Mommy's alright,Em daddy's alright, butD don't give yourself aC way
G Mommy's alright,Em daddy's alright, butD don't give yourself aC way
G Mommy's alright,Em daddy's alright, butD don't give yourself aC way
SurG render, surEm render, butD don't give yourself aC wayG