Four Non Blondes Chords Guide: What's Up?

Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into a song that's probably stuck in your head right now, just like it's been stuck in ours for decades: "What's Up?" by Four Non Blondes. Seriously, who doesn't know that iconic opening riff and Linda Perry's powerful vocals? It's a true anthem, and if you've ever wanted to strum along or even try singing it yourself, you've come to the right place. We're going to break down the chords for "What's Up?" so you can rock this classic tune.

The Core Chords You Need to Know

Alright, let's get down to business. The beauty of "What's Up?" lies in its simplicity, musically speaking. It uses a relatively small set of chords that are common in many popular songs. If you're new to guitar or piano, these are fantastic chords to get a handle on. The main chords you'll be dealing with are G, C, D, and Em. Yep, that's it! Pretty straightforward, right? These four chords form the backbone of the entire song, making it super accessible for players of all levels. We'll go through each one, assuming you're playing guitar, but these are easily transferable to other instruments. For G Major, you'll typically play it with your index finger on the A string, second fret; your middle finger on the low E string, third fret; and your ring finger on the high E string, third fret. It's a bright, happy sound that kicks off the song with a sense of urgency and questioning. Then we have C Major. A common way to play this is with your index finger on the B string, first fret; your middle finger on the D string, second fret; and your ring finger on the A string, third fret. C Major provides a bit of a grounding, but still open and resonant feel. D Major is often played with your index finger on the G string, second fret; your middle finger on the high E string, second fret; and your ring finger on the B string, third fret. D Major has a driving, forward-moving quality. Finally, E minor (Em) is one of the easiest chords to play, often just requiring your middle finger on the A string, second fret, and your ring finger on the D string, second fret. The Em chord adds a touch of melancholy or introspection, perfectly capturing the song's questioning vibe. Mastering these four chords is your golden ticket to playing "What's Up?" It's amazing how much emotional depth and musicality can be conveyed with such a simple palette. So, grab your instrument, get comfortable, and let's start building this song, one chord at a time. The repetition of these chords in different sequences is what creates the magic, so don't underestimate their power.

Verse Progression: Setting the Scene

Now, let's talk about the verse. This is where the song really starts to tell its story, and the chord progression here is key to that feeling. The most common progression you'll hear in the verse of "What's Up?" is G - C - G - D. It’s a cycle that feels both familiar and compelling. You start on G, establishing that initial, slightly anxious energy. Then you move to C, which offers a slight lift, a moment of contemplation. Returning to G brings you back to that core feeling, before the D chord pushes you forward, creating a sense of anticipation for what's next. This G - C - G - D pattern repeats throughout the verses. Listen closely to the song; you'll notice how this progression perfectly mirrors the lyrical content. Linda Perry's voice floats over these chords, delivering lines about wanting to be free and feeling lost. The simple, almost circular nature of the progression emphasizes the cyclical feeling of confusion and questioning that permeates the lyrics. It’s like being caught in a loop, trying to find answers. The rhythm is also crucial here. Typically, you'll be playing these chords with a steady down-up strumming pattern, or perhaps a simple down-down-up-up-down-up. Experiment with different strumming patterns to find what feels most authentic to you and the song. Some people prefer a more arpeggiated approach, picking out the notes of each chord, which can add a delicate touch. However, the raw power of "What's Up?" often comes from a more direct, strummed approach. Pay attention to the timing; the transitions between chords should be smooth. Practice changing from G to C, C to G, and G to D until it feels natural. The goal is to create a seamless flow that allows the listener (and you!) to get lost in the music. This verse progression is the foundation upon which the entire song is built, so getting it right is paramount. It’s not just about hitting the right notes; it’s about conveying the emotion behind them. The repetition isn't boring; it's a deliberate choice that underscores the themes of the song. It’s a testament to how effective simple musical structures can be when paired with powerful lyrical and vocal performances. So, really internalize this progression, feel the movement, and let it guide your playing.

The Chorus: That Iconic Singalong

Ah, the chorus! This is the part everyone waits for, the big release, the moment you can't help but belt out at the top of your lungs. The chorus of "What's Up?" is instantly recognizable, and its chord progression is designed for maximum impact. While the verse sticks to G - C - G - D, the chorus introduces a new element, often starting with C. The progression typically goes C - G - D - G. Let's break that down. You kick off with C, which feels like a lift, a more open and hopeful sound compared to the verse's start. Then you move to G, grounding it slightly before launching into D. The D chord here feels particularly strong and forward-driving, setting up the return to G, which feels like a resolution, albeit a temporary one, before the cycle potentially begins again. This C - G - D - G progression is repeated throughout the chorus. It's a powerful sequence that builds energy and emotion. The