Em
G
Am
C
D
Imitation Of Life
R.E.M.
The original "Imitation Of Life" by R.E.M. is an upbeat alternative rock song, driven by jangly electric guitars and a steady groove. The song’s energy comes from bright, open chords and a rhythmic strumming style, which translates well to acoustic guitar.
Chord Progression and Transitions
The song uses common open chords: Em, G, Am, C, and D. Beginners should practice moving smoothly between these shapes. The verse and chorus repeat similar progressions, making memorization easier. Start slowly, making sure each chord rings clearly before speeding up.
Strumming Pattern
A simple, steady strumming pattern works well: try down-down-up-up-down-up (D-D-U-U-D-U) for each measure. Keep your hand moving in time even if you miss a strum, to maintain a consistent rhythm. Listen to the original recording for reference, focusing on the dynamic, bouncy feel.
Tips for Beginners
— Practice the intro until you can switch between Em and G comfortably.
— For the chorus, anticipate the quick changes between C, Am, and D.
— Use a capo on the original recording’s fret if you want to match the pitch, but it sounds good in open position too.
— Relax your strumming hand and avoid tensing up; let your wrist do most of the work.
With repetition, you’ll develop the chord transitions and strumming fluidity needed for a confident performance.
Intro
Em G G Em Am C D D
Verse 1Em Charades popG skill, waterEm hyacinthD , named by aEm poet, imitaAm tion ofG lifeD C
Em Like aAm koi in aG frozen pondD Like a goldfishEm in a bowl
Am I don't want toG hear you cryD C
ChorusThat'sG sugarcane, thatEm tasted good. That'sC cinnaAm mon, that'sC HollyD wood
C'G mon, c' mon noEm one can see youAm tryC D D
Verse 2Em You want theG greatestAm thing, theG greatest thing sinceD bread came sliced
Em You've got itAm all you've got itG sussedD C
Em Like aAm Friday fashionG show teenagerD freezing in theEm corner
Am Trying to look likeG you don't tryD C
ChorusThat'sG sugarcane, thatEm tasted good. That'sC cinnaAm mon, that'sC HollyD wood
C'G mon, c' mon noEm one can see youAm tryC D D
BridgeC C C D D C C C D No one canD seeD youC cryC C D D
ChorusThatG sugarcane thatEm tasted good. That'sC freezingAm rain that's,C what youD could
C'G mon, c' mon noEm one can see youAm tryC D D
OutroThisG sugarcane, thisEm lemonade, thisAm hurricane I'm,C not aD fraid
C'G mon, c'mon noEm one can see meAm cryC D
ThisG lightning storm, thisEm tidal wave, thisAm avalanche I'm,C not aD fraid
C'G mon, c' mon noEm one can see meAm cryC D
ThatG sugar cane thatEm tasted good. That'sC who youAm are that's,C what youD could
C'G mon, c' mon noEm one can see youAm tryC D
ThatG sugarcane thatEm tasted good. That'sAm who you are that's,C what youD could
C'G mon, c'mon noEm one can see youAm cryC D D Em