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Folk · 1984 · Intermediate

Hallelujah

by Leonard Cohen
Key of C68 BPMIntermediate

Chord Sheet

Key of C · Progression: I–vi–IV–V

C
chord 1
Am
chord 2
F
chord 3
G
chord 4
E7
chord 5
Chord Loop
C — Am — F — G — E7 — ...
Key
C
Tempo
68 BPM
Chords
5
Genre
Folk

🎵 Practice Tips for Hallelujah

  • →Start at 34 BPM (50% tempo) until chord changes feel smooth.
  • →Loop just the C→Am transition repeatedly — this is often the hardest change.
  • →Use our Metronome set to 68 BPM for precise timing practice.
  • →Click any chord above to see its full piano keyboard and guitar fingering diagram.

How to Play Hallelujah by Leonard Cohen

Hallelujah (1984) is a intermediate-level folk song that uses 5 chords: C, Am, F, G, E7 in the key of C. The chord progression is I–vi–IV–V.

Chord Breakdown

  • C — major chord, bright and stable
  • Am — minor chord, darker emotional sound
  • F — major chord, bright and stable
  • G — major chord, bright and stable
  • E7 — dominant 7th, adds tension and movement

About Hallelujah

"Hallelujah" by Leonard Cohen (released 1984) is one of the most recognizable folk songs ever recorded. Its 5-chord structure demonstrates how a simple progression can create an emotionally powerful and memorable piece of music. The combination of C, Am, F creates a harmonic loop that feels both complete and constantly forward-moving.

Learning Hallelujah as a Beginner

If you're learning to play Hallelujah, 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
Hotel California
Eagles
Bm – F# – A – E – G – D – Em
Advanced
Bm · 74 BPM
No Woman No Cry
Bob Marley
C – G – Am – F
Beginner
C · 90 BPM
🎵 Metronome
Practice at 68 BPM
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🎹 Piano
Play on virtual piano
🎸 Guitar
Play on fretboard

FAQ

Hallelujah by Leonard Cohen — FAQ

What chords are in Hallelujah by Leonard Cohen?
Hallelujah uses the chords C, Am, F, G, E7 in the key of C. The progression follows a I–vi–IV–V pattern. This is a intermediate-level song.
What key is Hallelujah in?
Hallelujah by Leonard Cohen is in the key of C. The primary chords are C, Am, F.
What is the tempo of Hallelujah?
Hallelujah is played at approximately 68 BPM. This slow tempo is great for beginners to focus on chord transitions. Use our free metronome to practice at exactly 68 BPM.
What strumming pattern does Hallelujah use?
Hallelujah 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 C chord on guitar?
C is the main chord in Hallelujah. For C major: 3rd fret 5th string (A), 2nd fret 4th string (D), 1st fret 2nd string (B). Don't play 6th string.
Can I play Hallelujah on piano?
Yes! Hallelujah sounds great on piano. Play the chords C, Am, F, G, E7 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 Hallelujah beginner-friendly?
Hallelujah is rated Intermediate difficulty. The chord changes and rhythm require some practice.
What is the chord progression in Hallelujah?
The main progression in Hallelujah is C – Am – F – G – E7 (Roman numeral: I–vi–IV–V). This 5-chord pattern repeats throughout most of the song.
Can I transpose Hallelujah to a different key?
Yes! Hallelujah is in C. 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 Hallelujah?
Hallelujah by Leonard Cohen is a Folk song from 1984. Its 5-chord progression (C, Am, F, G, E7) translates naturally to different tempos and styles, making it a popular cover choice for musicians of all levels.