E
D
G
A
Born To Be Wild
Steppenwolf
Steppenwolf's "Born To Be Wild" is a classic rock anthem, famous for its driving rhythm and powerful energy. The original recording is built around a simple, heavy guitar riff, making it accessible for beginners while packing a lot of punch.
Chord Progression and Transitions:
The song primarily uses the E major and D major chords in the verses and adds G and A major in the chorus and bridge. These are all open chords, which are great for beginners. Practice moving smoothly between E and D, as this transition happens frequently and quickly, especially in the intro and verses.
Strumming Pattern:
A steady, strong downstroke strumming works well, matching the song’s driving rock feel. Try a pattern like: Down, Down, Down-Up, Down (with emphasis on the first downstroke of each chord). For more authenticity, add slight palm muting on the verses for a chugging sound, then strum more openly and loudly in the choruses.
Techniques:
Let the E chord ring out in the intro and solo sections. For the chorus, play with more energy and volume. When moving from G to A to E in the chorus, keep your wrist relaxed to switch quickly.
Tips:
Practice the chord changes slowly at first, especially E to D and G to A. Count along to keep the rhythm steady. With repetition, your transitions will become smoother and the song will flow naturally.
Intro
E E E D
E E E D
E E E D
E E E D
Verse 1E Get your motor runnin'E D
Head out on theE highwayE D
E Lookin' for adventureE
D And whatE ever comes our wayE D
ChorusG YeahA darlin' goE make it happen
G Take theA world in aE love embrace
G FireA all of yourE guns at once and
G ExA plode intoE space
Verse 2E I like smoke and lightnin'E D
Heavy metal thunE derE D
E Racin' with the windE
D And theE feelin' that I'm underE D
ChorusG YeahA darlin' goE make it happen
G Take theA world in aE love embrace
G FireA all of yourE guns at once and
G ExA plode intoE space
BridgeLike a true nature's child, we wereG born, born to be wild
We canA climb so high
G I never, wannaE die
Born to beD wildE D
E Born to beD wildE D
Guitar SoloE E E E E E E E
E E E E E E E
E E E E E E E
E E E E E E E E
Final ChorusG YeahA darlin' goE make it happen
G Take theA world in aE love embrace
G FireA all of yourE guns at once and
G ExA plode intoE space
OutroLike a true nature's child, we wereG born, born to be wild
We canA climb so high
G I never, wannaE die
Born to beD wildE D
E Born to beD wildE D
E E E E E E E E