By Billie Eilish
Introduction:
“Birds of a Feather,” a song by Billie Eilish (though not officially released), is a melancholic yet captivating ballad exploring the complexities of a deeply committed relationship. The lyrics express a wish for enduring love, even acknowledging potential flaws and acknowledging the uncertainties of life. The intimate and vulnerable nature of the lyrics is beautifully matched by the song’s emotional melody.
Guitar Chords for Birds of a Feather:
This arrangement primarily uses D major (D), B minor (Bm), E minor (Em), and A major (A).
(Intro)
[D]
(I want you to stay)
(Verse 1)
[D]
I want you to stay
[Bm]
‘Til I’m in the grave
[Em]
‘Til I rot away, dead and buried
[A]
‘Til I’m in the casket you carry
[D]
If you go, I’m goin’ too, uh
[Bm]
‘Cause it was always you (Alright)
[Em]
And if I’m turnin’ blue, please don’t save me
[A]
Nothin’ left to lose without my baby
(Refrain)
[D] [Bm]
Birds of a feather, we should stick together, I know
I said I’d never think I wasn’t better alone
[Em]
Can’t change the weather, might not be forever
[A]
But if it’s forever, it’s even better
(Pre-Chorus)
[D] [Bm]
And I don’t know what I’m cryin’ for
[Em]
I don’t think I could love you more
[A]
It might not be long, but, baby, I
(Chorus)
txt
[D]
I’ll love you ’til the day that I die
[Bm]
‘Til the day that I die
[Em]
‘Til the light leaves my eyes
[A]
‘Til the day that I die
(Verse 2)
[D]
I want you to see, hmm
[Bm]
How you look to me, hmm
[Em]
You wouldn’t believe if I told ya
[A]
You would keep the compliments I throw ya
[D]
But you’re so full of shit, uh
[Bm]
Tell me it’s a bit, oh
[Em]
Say you don’t see it, your mind’s polluted
[A]
Say you wanna quit, don’t be stupid
(Pre-Chorus)
[D] [Bm]
And I don’t know what I’m cryin’ for
[Em]
I don’t think I could love you more
[A]
Might not be long, but, baby, I
[D]
Don’t wanna say goodbye
(Chorus with Refrain)
txt
[BM]
Birds of a feather, we should stick together, I know (‘Til the day that I die)
[Em]
I said I’d never think I wasn’t better alone (‘Til the light leaves my eyes)
[A]
Can’t change the weather, might not be forever (‘Til the day that I die)
But if it’s forever, it’s even better
(Post-Chorus)
[D] [Bm]
I knew you in another life
[Em]
You had that same look in your eyes
[A]
I love you, don’t act so surprised
(Outro)
[D] [Bm] [Em] [A]
Tips for Playing Birds of a Feather on Guitar:
- Chord Changes: Practice smooth transitions between the chords. The song’s emotional flow depends on clean and efficient chord changes.
- Strumming Pattern: Experiment with different strumming patterns – a simple downstroke pattern works for verses, while a more intricate pattern could be used for the chorus to create a more powerful effect.
- Tempo: Maintain a moderate tempo that allows the song’s emotional weight to be fully felt. Don’t rush the performance.
- Dynamics: Vary the intensity to emphasize crucial parts. Soft strums or fingerpicking during certain sections can create a more intimate atmosphere. Conversely, stronger strums in the chorus can enhance the emotional impact.
Conclusion:
“Birds of a Feather” is a heartfelt exploration of love’s complexities. Mastering these chords, understanding strumming styles, and employing dynamics skillfully allows one to communicate the depths of emotion present in the song completely.
