Song Tabs
Song Index Songs by Chords Guide to Guitar Chords About
EADGBE Em
EADGBE G
EADGBEXX D
EADGBEX A
EADGBE Dsus2
Other songs by R.E.M.
Songs with the same chords: A + D + Dsus2 + Em + G
Monty Got A Raw Deal R.E.M.

Original Song Context
The original R.E.M. recording features a moody, folk-inspired sound with acoustic guitar as its backbone. The groove is steady and reflective, showcasing simple yet effective strumming and clean chord changes that suit a beginner guitarist well.

Chords Used
Em, G, D, A, Dsus2
All are basic open chords, easy for beginners. Dsus2 is played like D, but with the high E string open.

Strumming Pattern
A relaxed down-down-up-up-down-up pattern fits well with the original. Strum lightly to capture the song’s contemplative mood. For softer verses, try only down strums or palm muting for dynamic variation.

Chord Transitions
Practice switching between Em and G—these appear often. Use your index and middle fingers for Em, then pivot your ring and pinky to G for a smooth move. When transitioning to D or A, lift your fingers slightly and aim for economy of motion.

Techniques and Tips

  • Let each chord ring clearly; avoid rushing transitions.
  • For the Dsus2 in the interlude/outro, just lift your middle finger from the D chord.
  • Stay relaxed, keep your wrist loose, and focus on keeping a steady tempo.
  • Listen to the original to match the feel and dynamics.

With practice, this song is a great way to build confidence in strumming and chord changes while enjoying a classic R.E.M. tune.

EADGBE Em
EADGBE G
EADGBEXX D
EADGBEX A
EADGBE Dsus2
Intro
Em G Em G Em G D A Em
Verse 1
Em Monty this seemsG strange to me. TheEm movies had thatG movie thing.
ButEm nonsense has aG welcome ring, andD heroesA don't come easEm y.
 Verse 2
Em Now nonsense isn'tG new to me. IEm know my head IG know my feet.
ButEm mischief knocked meG in the knees. Said "D Just,A let,Em go.D Just,A let,Em go."
 Verse 3
Em I saw the oceanG meet the man. IEm saw you buriedG in the sand.
AEm friend was there toG hold your hand. Said "D Walk,A on,Em by."
 Verse 4
Em So I went walkingG through the street. IEm saw you strung upG in a tree.
AEm woman knelt thereG said to me, said "D Hold,A your,Em tongue.D Hold,A your,Em tongue."
 Interlude
Em Em Em Em Em D Dsus2 D Em
Chorus
G You don'tD owe me anEm ything.
G You don'tA want thisEm sympathy.G Don't youA waste yourEm breath.
G For theA silverEm screen.
 Verse 5
Em That nonsense doesn'tG mean a thing. TheyEm tried to bust youG in a sting.
ButEm virtue isn'tG everything, soD don't,A waste,Em time.
 Verse 6
Em Now here's a rhyme thatG you can steal.Em Put this on yourG reel to reel.
Em Mischief threw aG rotten deal.D Monty'sA layin'Em low.
D He isA layin'Em low.D Just,A let,Em go.D Just,A let,Em go.
 Outro
Em Em Em Em Em D Dsus2 D Em
G You don'tD owe me anEm ything.
Em Em Em Em Em D Dsus2 D Em
G You don'tA want thisEm sympathy.G Don't youA waste yourEm breath.
G MontyA this seemsEm strange to me.G A Em
Other songs by R.E.M.
Songs with the same chords: A + D + Dsus2 + Em + G