Song Index Songs by Chords Guide to Guitar Chords About
Good Riddance (Time Of Your Life) Green Day

 Green Day's "Good Riddance (Time Of Your Life)" is a classic acoustic ballad known for its heartfelt lyrics and simple, melodic chord progression. The original version features a distinctive picking pattern, but it can also be played with straightforward strumming, making it accessible for beginners.


Chords

The main chords used are:
G, C, D, Em

All are open chords, ideal for beginners. Practice switching between G, C, and D, as these transitions are frequent.


Strumming Pattern

A common beginner pattern is:
Down, Down, Up, Up, Down, Up

Try this for each chord, adjusting speed to match the song. For a more authentic feel, listen to the original and mimic the rhythm.


Tips for Beginners

  • Chord Transitions: Practice moving between G, C, and D smoothly. Keep your fingers relaxed and close to the fretboard.
  • Emphasis: Strum a little harder on the first beat of each bar to capture the song’s pulse.
  • Tempo: Start slow. Gradually increase speed as you become comfortable with the transitions and strumming.
  • Palm Muting (Optional): Lightly rest your palm on the strings near the bridge for a softer sound, similar to the original.

With practice, you'll capture the song’s uplifting energy and emotional resonance. Enjoy playing!

EADGBE G
EADGBE C
EADGBEXX D
EADGBE Em
Intro
G G C D
G G C D
Verse 1
G Another turning point aC fork stuck in theD road
G Time grabs you by the wrist diC rects you where toD go
Em So make theD best of thisC test and don't askG why
Em It's not aD question but aC lesson learned inD time
Chorus
It'sEm something unpreG dictable butEm in the end it'sG right
IEm hope you had theD time of yourG life
G C D G G C D
Verse 2
G So take the photographs andC still frames in yourD mind
G Hang it on a shelf inC good health and goodD time
Em Tattoos ofD memories andC dead skin onG trial
Em For what it'sD worth it wasC worth all theD while
Chorus
It'sEm something unpreG dictable butEm in the end it'sG right
IEm hope you had theD time of yourG life
G C D G G C D
Instrumental
G G C D G G C D
Em D C G Em D C G
Chorus
It'sEm something unpreG dictable butEm in the end it'sG right
IEm hope you had theD time of yourG life
G C D G G C D
Chorus
It'sEm something unpreG dictable butEm in the end it'sG right
IEm hope you had theD time of yourG life
G C D G G C D G