"Electrolite" by R.E.M. features a gentle, melodic feel with straightforward chords, making it approachable for beginners. The original song is piano-driven, but on guitar, it works beautifully with open chords and a relaxed style.
Chord Progressions and Changes
The main chords are G, C, D, Am, Em, and B. All but B are common open chords. For B, use the B major barre chord at the 2nd fret or substitute B7 for easier fingering.
Verses alternate between G and C, with D at phrase endings. Choruses use Am, D, B, Em, and G. The bridge introduces more frequent B changes—practice switching between B, C, and Am slowly at first.
Strumming Pattern
Aim for a gentle, steady strumming pattern such as down-down-up-up-down-up (D-D-U-U-D-U), emphasizing the first down strum on each chord change. Keep your wrist relaxed for a flowing, even sound.
Tips for Beginners
**- Practice the G–C and C–G transitions, as they're frequent.
- Take time with the B chord: use a partial barre or B7 if B is too difficult at first.
- Play slowly at first, focusing on clean chord changes and timing.
- Listen to the original to match the mellow, expressive feel.**
Enjoy learning this classic R.E.M. tune!
IntroG C G
Verse 1Your eyes areC burnin' holes throughG meC
I'm gasoG lineC
I'm burnin'G cleanC G
TwentiethC century go toG sleepC
You're plastiG cineC
That is obG sceneC
That is obD scene
ChorusYouAm are the star toD night you shine eAm lectric outtaD sight
YourB light eclipsed the moon toEm nightG
EAm lectroEm liteG
You'reAm outtaEm sightG D D G
Verse 2If IC ever want toG flyC
MulhollandG DriveC
I am aG liveC G
HollyC wood is underG meC
I'm MartinG SheenC
I'm Steve McG QueenC
I'm JimmyD Dean
ChorusYouAm are the star toD night you shine eAm lectric outtaD sight
YourB light eclipsed the moon toEm nightG
EAm lectroEm liteG
You'reAm outtaEm sightG D
BridgeB B Am B B C Am B B Am C C D D G
Verse 3If youC ever want toG flyC
MulhollandG DriveC
Up in theG skyC G
Stand on aC cliff and look downG thereC
Don't beG scaredC
You are aG liveC
You are aD live
ChorusYouAm are the star toD night you shine eAm lectric outtaD sight
Your light eB clipsed the moon toEm nightG
EAm lectroEm liteG
You'reAm outtaEm sightG D D G
OutroTwentiethC century go toG sleepC
ReallyG deepC
We won'tG blinkC G
Your eyes areC burnin' holes throughG meC
I'm notG scaredC
I'm outtaG hereC
I'm notG scared I'm outta here