Green Day

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
Nice guys finish last
You're runnin' out of gas
Your sympathy will get you left behind
Sometimes you're at your best
When you feel the worst
Do you feel washed up like piss goin' down the drain?

[Pre-Chorus]
Pressure cooker, pick my brain and tell me I'm insane
I'm so fuckin' happy I could cry
Every joke can have its truth, but now the joke's on you
I never knew you were such a funny guy

[Chorus]
Oh, nice guys finish last
When you are the outcast
Don't pat yourself on the back, you might break your spine

[Verse 2]
Livin' on command
You're shakin' lots of hands
You're kissin' up and bleedin' all your trust
Takin' what you need
Bite the hand that feeds
You'll lose your memory, and you got no shame
[Pre-Chorus]
Pressure cooker, pick my brain and tell me I'm insane
I'm so fuckin' happy I could cry
Every joke can have its truth, but now the joke's on you
I never knew you were such a funny guy

[Chorus]
Oh, nice guys finish last
When you are the outcast
Don't pat yourself on the back, you might break your spine
Oh, nice guys finish last
When you are the outcast
Don't pat yourself on the back, you might break your spine
Mhm!

[Interlude]

[Chorus]
Oh, nice guys finish last
When you are the outcast
Don't pat yourself on the back, you might break your spine
Oh, nice guys finish last
When you are the outcast
Don't pat yourself on the back, you might break your spine

Green Day's "Nice Guys Finish Last" is a track that explores the realities of life, highlighting the harsh truth that being a genuine, 'nice' person often doesn't pay off. Written by the band's frontman Billie Joe Armstrong, the lyrics are deeply insightful, brimming with a plethora of metaphors and analogies that paint a vivid picture of life's struggles.

About Nice Guys Finish Last

The track opens with a fast-paced guitar riff, which sets the tone for the fast-paced, upbeat nature of the song. The lyrics, however, are anything but upbeat – they are raw and poignant, highlighting the pitfalls of being genuine in a cutthroat world. Throughout the song, Armstrong laments the loss of authenticity, as he narrates his struggles to succeed by being himself.

One of the most powerful metaphors in "Nice Guys Finish Last" is the line, "Don't pat yourself on the back, you might break your spine." This clever analogy speaks to the idea that being too self-congratulatory can be harmful and self-destructive. It's a warning about the dangers of complacency and the importance of striving for more.

Another notable aspect of the song is its fast-paced tempo, which adds to the overall urgency and intensity of the track. The energy of the music is palpable, and it serves as a perfect compliment to the almost desperate tone of the lyrics.

Overall, "Nice Guys Finish Last" is a song that speaks to universal truths about life and the human experience. It's a testament to the fact that sometimes, being a genuine, kind-hearted person isn't enough to succeed in the world. However, it's also a reminder that it's possible to overcome obstacles and thrive, even in the face of adversity.

If you're a fan of Green Day or simply love thought-provoking, introspective music, "Nice Guys Finish Last" is definitely a song you don't want to miss. With its catchy beat, powerful lyrics, and insightful message, this track is sure to stay with you long after you've finished listening.

• Release Date: October 10, 1997
• Artist: Green Day