Weird Al's "Yoda" is a playful parody of The Kinks’ "Lola," so listening to the original can offer inspiration for the song’s upbeat, bouncy feel. The chords and rhythm are accessible for beginners.
Strumming Pattern
A simple down-up-down-up (D-U-D-U) pattern works well. Try a steady eighth-note strum, accenting the second and fourth beats to capture the original’s groove. For an even easier approach, use all downstrokes.
Chord Tips
- The main chords are E, A, D, and C. Practice switching between E and A, as this is a common transition.
- For the bridge, you’ll encounter B7 and F#. B7 is more beginner-friendly than B major, so use the open shape. F# may be tricky; if needed, play only the top four strings or substitute with an easier F# minor 7 shape.
- The second bridge uses F#m and C#m. These barre chords can be challenging, so take your time, or use simplified versions (like F#m7 and C#m7).
General Tips
- Slow down chord changes when learning and gradually speed up.
- Try singing along to help you remember chord placements.
- If you struggle with barre chords, practice them separately.
Play along with the recording to get the feel and timing right. Enjoy embodying Weird Al’s fun energy!
IntroC C D E
Verse 1IE met him in a swamp down in Dagobah, where itA bubbles all the time like aD giant carbonatedE soda
S - O - D - AA soda
Verse 2IE saw the little runt sitting there on a log, IA asked him his name and in aD raspy voice he saidE Yoda
Y - O - D - AA Yoda,D Yo-yo-yo-yoC Yoda
Verse 3Well I'veE been around but I ain't never seen a guy whoA looks like a Muppet but he'sD wrinkled and green oh myE Yoda
Yo-yo-yo-yoA Yoda
Verse 4WellE I'm not dumb but I can't understand how he canA lift me in the air just byD raising his hand oh myE Yoda
Yo-yo-yo-yoA Yoda,D Yo-yo-yo-yoC Yoda
BridgeWellB7 I left home just a week before, andF# I've never ever been a Jedi before
ButA Obi Wan he set me straight of course, he said go to Yoda and he'll show you the force
Verse 5WellE I'm not the kind that would argue with Ben, so itA looks like I'm gonna start allD over again with myE Yoda
Yo-yo-yo-yoA Yoda,D Yo-yo-yo-yoC Yoda
Bridge 2SoA IE used theB force,E IA pickedE up aB box
E IA lifE ted someB rocks while IE stoodF#m on myC#m head
WellB I won't forget what Yoda said
OutroE Yoda, Yo-yo-yo-yoA Yoda,D Yo-yo-yo-yoC Yoda