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Rock · 1990 · Intermediate

More Than Words

by Extreme
Key of G72 BPMIntermediate

Chord Sheet

Key of G · Progression: Complex fingerpicking

Chord Loop
G — Cadd9 — Am7 — C — D — Em — ...
Key
G
Tempo
72 BPM
Chords
6
Genre
Rock

🎵 Practice Tips for More Than Words

  • Start at 36 BPM (50% tempo) until chord changes feel smooth.
  • Loop just the G→Cadd9 transition repeatedly — this is often the hardest change.
  • Use our Metronome set to 72 BPM for precise timing practice.
  • Click any chord above to see its full piano keyboard and guitar fingering diagram.

How to Play More Than Words by Extreme

More Than Words (1990) is a intermediate-level rock song that uses 6 chords: G, Cadd9, Am7, C, D, Em in the key of G. The chord progression is Complex fingerpicking.

Chord Breakdown

  • G — major chord, bright and stable
  • Cadd9 — major chord, bright and stable
  • Am7 — dominant 7th, adds tension and movement
  • C — major chord, bright and stable
  • D — major chord, bright and stable
  • Em — minor chord, darker emotional sound

About More Than Words

"More Than Words" by Extreme (released 1990) is one of the most recognizable rock songs ever recorded. Its 6-chord structure demonstrates how a simple progression can create an emotionally powerful and memorable piece of music. The combination of G, Cadd9, Am7 creates a harmonic loop that feels both complete and constantly forward-moving.

Learning More Than Words as a Beginner

If you're learning to play More Than Words, 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.

FAQ

More Than Words by Extreme — FAQ

What chords are in More Than Words by Extreme?
More Than Words uses the chords G, Cadd9, Am7, C, D, Em in the key of G. The progression follows a Complex fingerpicking pattern. This is a intermediate-level song.
What key is More Than Words in?
More Than Words by Extreme is in the key of G. The primary chords are G, Cadd9, Am7.
What is the tempo of More Than Words?
More Than Words is played at approximately 72 BPM. This slow tempo is great for beginners to focus on chord transitions. Use our free metronome to practice at exactly 72 BPM.
What strumming pattern does More Than Words use?
More Than Words 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 More Than Words. Place fingers on: 3rd fret 6th string (E), 2nd fret 5th string (A), 3rd fret 1st string (e).
Can I play More Than Words on piano?
Yes! More Than Words sounds great on piano. Play the chords G, Cadd9, Am7, C, D, Em 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 More Than Words beginner-friendly?
More Than Words is rated Intermediate difficulty. The chord changes and rhythm require some practice.
What is the chord progression in More Than Words?
The main progression in More Than Words is G – Cadd9 – Am7 – C – D – Em (Roman numeral: Complex fingerpicking). This 6-chord pattern repeats throughout most of the song.
Can I transpose More Than Words to a different key?
Yes! More Than Words 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 More Than Words?
More Than Words by Extreme is a Rock song from 1990. Its 6-chord progression (G, Cadd9, Am7, C, D, Em) translates naturally to different tempos and styles, making it a popular cover choice for musicians of all levels.