Green Day

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
I don't know you, but I think I hate you
You're the reason for my misery
Strange how you've become my biggest enemy
And I've never even seen your face

[Chorus]
Well maybe it's just jealousy
Mixing up with a violent mind
A circumstance that doesn't make much sense
Or maybe I'm just dumb

[Verse 2]
You're the cloud hanging out over my head
And hail comes crashing down, welting my face
Magic man, egocentric plastic man
Yet you still got one over on me

[Chorus]
Well maybe it's just jealousy
Mixing up with a violent mind
A circumstance that doesn't make much sense
Or maybe I'm just dumb
I'm a chump!

[Bass Solo]
[Instrumental Outro]

Green Day’s third album Dookie contains several classic songs, and "Chump" is one of those special tracks they never seem to leave off their live setlists. It is an explosive and bitter song of revenge, aimed directly at the narrator's ex-girlfriend's new boyfriend. Despite not knowing the man personally, the narrator holds him in contempt, projecting an overwhelming sense of frustration and anger through the song.

About Chump

”Chump” by Green Day is one of the band's most beloved songs from their third studio album Dookie, which was released in 1994. The song lasts for just over two minutes, and in that time, a potent and cantankerous narrative unfolds. The lyrics tell a story of a man who is spurned by his ex-girlfriend, and in retaliation, he berates her new lover.

The song's opening lines, "I don't know you, but I think I hate you," perfectly capture the confrontational and unapologetic spirit of "Chump." The chorus refrain of "Where did all the time go?/It's ticking by so slow" emphasizes the unnamed protagonist's anger and frustration at seeing his ex-boyfriend move on with someone else.

The song is a stylistic hybrid between punk and rock, and the fast tempo and catchy melody define much of its success. The instrumental section of the song takes a sharp turn, with the music becoming intense and frenetic, showcasing the band's impressive musicianship. The instrumental interlude lasts for around a minute and a half, leading into the next track, "Longview."

The lyrics of "Chump" are both simple and effective, with the song's raw emotions and directness resonating with many listeners. The song's popularity can be attributed to its relatability as many people have experienced heartbreak, anger, and frustration in one form or another.

Green Day's frontman, Billie Joe Armstrong, explained in an interview that "Chump" is an example of a song that came together in the studio. He said, "I remember 'Chump' is the song that we wrote right in the studio. We didn't have a melody or anything, and I was like, 'I got this riff.' Mike [Dirnt] was playing drums, and I just started singing to it." This on-the-spot approach to songwriting is perhaps why "Chump" feels so raw and exciting.

In the years since its release, "Chump" has remained a fan favorite, with many describing it as a song that perfectly captures the essence of Green Day's music. It embodies the band's punk rock ethos while offering listeners an engaging and empathetic experience.

Conclusion

Overall, "Chump" is a testament to Green Day's impressive songwriting skills, with the band using their formidable talents to create a song that is both accessible and thought-provoking. The song showcases how the band uses music to express their raw and emotive feelings, with "Chump" striking an emotional chord with many fans still after more than 20 years since its release. The song's universal themes of heartbreak, anger, and betrayal are what make it such a classic and enduring punk rock anthem.

• Release Date: January 28, 1994
• Artist: Green Day