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Folk · 2012 · Beginner

Ho Hey

by The Lumineers
Key of C80 BPMBeginner

Chord Sheet

Key of C · Progression: I–IV–V–vi

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

🎵 Practice Tips for Ho Hey

  • →Start at 40 BPM (50% tempo) until chord changes feel smooth.
  • →Loop just the C→F 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 Ho Hey by The Lumineers

Ho Hey (2012) is a beginner-level folk song that uses 4 chords: C, F, G, Am in the key of C. The chord progression is I–IV–V–vi.

Chord Breakdown

  • C — major chord, bright and stable
  • F — major chord, bright and stable
  • G — major chord, bright and stable
  • Am — minor chord, darker emotional sound

About Ho Hey

"Ho Hey" by The Lumineers (released 2012) 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 C, F, G creates a harmonic loop that feels both complete and constantly forward-moving.

Learning Ho Hey as a Beginner

If you're learning to play Ho Hey, 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

Ho Hey by The Lumineers — FAQ

What chords are in Ho Hey by The Lumineers?
Ho Hey uses the chords C, F, G, Am in the key of C. The progression follows a I–IV–V–vi pattern. This is a beginner-level song.
What key is Ho Hey in?
Ho Hey by The Lumineers is in the key of C. The primary chords are C, F, G.
What is the tempo of Ho Hey?
Ho Hey 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 Ho Hey use?
Ho Hey 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 Ho Hey. 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 Ho Hey on piano?
Yes! Ho Hey sounds great on piano. Play the chords C, F, G, Am in root position or inversions. Left hand plays bass notes (root of each chord), right hand plays chord voicings. This is a beginner-level arrangement.
Is Ho Hey beginner-friendly?
Yes! Ho Hey is rated Beginner difficulty. It uses 4 main chords (C, F, G), all easy open or basic chords. One of the best songs for new players to learn.
What is the chord progression in Ho Hey?
The main progression in Ho Hey is C – F – G – Am (Roman numeral: I–IV–V–vi). This 4-chord pattern repeats throughout most of the song.
Can I transpose Ho Hey to a different key?
Yes! Ho Hey 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 Ho Hey?
Ho Hey by The Lumineers is a Folk song from 2012. Its 4-chord progression (C, F, G, Am) translates naturally to different tempos and styles, making it a popular cover choice for musicians of all levels.