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Pop · 2017 · Beginner

Perfect

by Ed Sheeran
Key of G96 BPMBeginner

Chord Sheet

Key of G · Progression: I–vi–IV–V

G
chord 1
Em
chord 2
C
chord 3
D
chord 4
Chord Loop
G — Em — C — D — ...
Key
G
Tempo
96 BPM
Chords
4
Genre
Pop

🎵 Practice Tips for Perfect

  • →Start at 48 BPM (50% tempo) until chord changes feel smooth.
  • →Loop just the G→Em transition repeatedly — this is often the hardest change.
  • →Use our Metronome set to 96 BPM for precise timing practice.
  • →Click any chord above to see its full piano keyboard and guitar fingering diagram.

How to Play Perfect by Ed Sheeran

Perfect (2017) is a beginner-level pop song that uses 4 chords: G, Em, C, D in the key of G. The chord progression is I–vi–IV–V.

Chord Breakdown

  • G — major chord, bright and stable
  • Em — minor chord, darker emotional sound
  • C — major chord, bright and stable
  • D — major chord, bright and stable

About Perfect

"Perfect" by Ed Sheeran (released 2017) is one of the most recognizable pop 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, Em, C creates a harmonic loop that feels both complete and constantly forward-moving.

Learning Perfect as a Beginner

If you're learning to play Perfect, 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
Stand By Me
Ben E. King
A – F#m – D – E
Beginner
A · 76 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 96 BPM
🎼 Tuner
Tune your instrument
🎹 Piano
Play on virtual piano
🎸 Guitar
Play on fretboard

FAQ

Perfect by Ed Sheeran — FAQ

What chords are in Perfect by Ed Sheeran?
Perfect uses the chords G, Em, C, D in the key of G. The progression follows a I–vi–IV–V pattern. This is a beginner-level song.
What key is Perfect in?
Perfect by Ed Sheeran is in the key of G. The primary chords are G, Em, C.
What is the tempo of Perfect?
Perfect is played at approximately 96 BPM. This moderate tempo is comfortable for intermediate players. Use our free metronome to practice at exactly 96 BPM.
What strumming pattern does Perfect use?
Perfect 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 Perfect. Place fingers on: 3rd fret 6th string (E), 2nd fret 5th string (A), 3rd fret 1st string (e).
Can I play Perfect on piano?
Yes! Perfect sounds great on piano. Play the chords G, Em, C, D 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 Perfect beginner-friendly?
Yes! Perfect is rated Beginner difficulty. It uses 4 main chords (G, Em, C), all easy open or basic chords. One of the best songs for new players to learn.
What is the chord progression in Perfect?
The main progression in Perfect is G – Em – C – D (Roman numeral: I–vi–IV–V). This 4-chord pattern repeats throughout most of the song.
Can I transpose Perfect to a different key?
Yes! Perfect 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 Perfect?
Perfect by Ed Sheeran is a Pop song from 2017. Its 4-chord progression (G, Em, C, D) translates naturally to different tempos and styles, making it a popular cover choice for musicians of all levels.