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Folk · 1968 · Intermediate

Blackbird

by The Beatles
Key of G80 BPMIntermediate

Chord Sheet

Key of G · Progression: I–ii–IV–V7

G
chord 1
Am
chord 2
C
chord 3
A7
chord 4
Chord Loop
G — Am — C — A7 — ...
Key
G
Tempo
80 BPM
Chords
4
Genre
Folk

🎵 Practice Tips for Blackbird

  • →Start at 40 BPM (50% tempo) until chord changes feel smooth.
  • →Loop just the G→Am transition repeatedly — this is often the hardest change.
  • →Use our Metronome set to 80 BPM for precise timing practice.
  • →Click any chord above to see its full piano keyboard and guitar fingering diagram.

How to Play Blackbird by The Beatles

Blackbird (1968) is a intermediate-level folk song that uses 4 chords: G, Am, C, A7 in the key of G. The chord progression is I–ii–IV–V7.

Chord Breakdown

  • G — major chord, bright and stable
  • Am — minor chord, darker emotional sound
  • C — major chord, bright and stable
  • A7 — dominant 7th, adds tension and movement

About Blackbird

"Blackbird" by The Beatles (released 1968) is one of the most recognizable folk songs ever recorded. Its 4-chord structure demonstrates how a simple progression can create an emotionally powerful and memorable piece of music. The combination of G, Am, C creates a harmonic loop that feels both complete and constantly forward-moving.

Learning Blackbird as a Beginner

If you're learning to play Blackbird, start by getting comfortable with each chord individually before trying to switch between them. The goal is to make each chord change automatic — your fingers should know where to go without you having to think about it. Practice the chord loop slowly with a metronome, and you'll be playing the full song within a few weeks.

Similar Songs (Same Key or Chords)

Let It Be
The Beatles
C – G – Am – F
Beginner
C · 75 BPM
Wonderwall
Oasis
Em – G – D – A7sus4
Beginner
Em · 87 BPM
Knockin' on Heaven's Door
Bob Dylan
G – D – Am – C
Beginner
G · 72 BPM
Perfect
Ed Sheeran
G – Em – C – D
Beginner
G · 96 BPM
Hallelujah
Leonard Cohen
C – Am – F – G – E7
Intermediate
C · 68 BPM
Hotel California
Eagles
Bm – F# – A – E – G – D – Em
Advanced
Bm · 74 BPM
🎵 Metronome
Practice at 80 BPM
🎼 Tuner
Tune your instrument
🎹 Piano
Play on virtual piano
🎸 Guitar
Play on fretboard

FAQ

Blackbird by The Beatles — FAQ

What chords are in Blackbird by The Beatles?
Blackbird uses the chords G, Am, C, A7 in the key of G. The progression follows a I–ii–IV–V7 pattern. This is a intermediate-level song.
What key is Blackbird in?
Blackbird by The Beatles is in the key of G. The primary chords are G, Am, C.
What is the tempo of Blackbird?
Blackbird is played at approximately 80 BPM. This moderate tempo is comfortable for intermediate players. Use our free metronome to practice at exactly 80 BPM.
What strumming pattern does Blackbird use?
Blackbird is typically in 4/4 time. A common strumming pattern is down-down-up-up-down-up (DDUUDU) or simplified all-down for beginners. Focus on getting chord changes smooth before adding strumming complexity.
How do I play G chord on guitar?
G is the main chord in Blackbird. Place fingers on: 3rd fret 6th string (E), 2nd fret 5th string (A), 3rd fret 1st string (e).
Can I play Blackbird on piano?
Yes! Blackbird sounds great on piano. Play the chords G, Am, C, A7 in root position or inversions. Left hand plays bass notes (root of each chord), right hand plays chord voicings. This is a intermediate-level arrangement.
Is Blackbird beginner-friendly?
Blackbird is rated Intermediate difficulty. The chord changes and rhythm require some practice.
What is the chord progression in Blackbird?
The main progression in Blackbird is G – Am – C – A7 (Roman numeral: I–ii–IV–V7). This 4-chord pattern repeats throughout most of the song.
Can I transpose Blackbird to a different key?
Yes! Blackbird is in G. To make it easier, try transposing to G or D using a capo. A capo changes your effective key while keeping the same chord shapes. Use our Transpose Tool to convert all chord names automatically.
What genre is Blackbird?
Blackbird by The Beatles is a Folk song from 1968. Its 4-chord progression (G, Am, C, A7) translates naturally to different tempos and styles, making it a popular cover choice for musicians of all levels.