Jun 20, 2025
Budapest – George Ezra’s Laid-Back Groove Pairs Perfectly with a Premium Ukulele
Why this foot-tapping tune is ideal for expressive players — and how a quality instrument helps you lock in the rhythm and sing with full confidence
When Budapest hit the airwaves in 2014, listeners were immediately drawn to George Ezra’s deep voice and minimalist acoustic style. But behind the catchy melody is a cleverly constructed song with syncopation, swing, and character — all things that a well-crafted premium ukulele can help bring to life.
Though it was written on guitar, Budapest sounds fantastic on uke — especially when you have an instrument with rich sustain, accurate intonation, and tonewood that supports dynamic strumming.
🧳 A Hit Born from a Missed Trip
Ezra wrote Budapest after skipping the Hungarian leg of his Europe travels — opting instead to stay in Malmö, Sweden, nursing a hangover. Ironically, the song about a city he never visited launched his global career.
“My house in Budapest, my hidden treasure chest…”
The rhythm is everything — and it grooves beautifully on uke.
🎶 Why It Belongs in Your Ukulele Setlist
-
Simple chord structure (C, F, Am, G) makes it playable at any level
-
Syncopated strumming keeps it fun and challenging
-
Great song for practicing groove and vocal phrasing
-
Pairs beautifully with a higher-end uke that can project warmth and clarity
🎸 Want to get more out of your playing? A high-quality uke makes a huge difference. Explore our Ukuleles Over $1000 Collection — featuring finely crafted instruments that reward every strum and vocal nuance.
🎯 Playing Tip: Let the Rhythm Lead
Ezra’s delivery has a swing feel — the strumming pattern should have a “lilt,” not just straight eighth notes. Practice accenting the 2nd and 4th beats and keeping your fretting hand light to avoid muting your tone. A well-built uke helps you stay in rhythm and sing with confidence.
Try this song standing up — it naturally moves with the body.
🔗 Sources
-
Ultimate Guitar – Ukulele Tab
