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Indie · 2013 · Beginner

Riptide

by Vance Joy
Key of C100 BPMBeginner

Chord Sheet

Key of C · Progression: vi–V–I–IV

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

🎵 Practice Tips for Riptide

  • →Start at 50 BPM (50% tempo) until chord changes feel smooth.
  • →Loop just the Am→G transition repeatedly — this is often the hardest change.
  • →Use our Metronome set to 100 BPM for precise timing practice.
  • →Click any chord above to see its full piano keyboard and guitar fingering diagram.

How to Play Riptide by Vance Joy

Riptide (2013) is a beginner-level indie song that uses 4 chords: Am, G, C, F in the key of C. The chord progression is vi–V–I–IV.

Chord Breakdown

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

About Riptide

"Riptide" by Vance Joy (released 2013) is one of the most recognizable indie 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 Am, G, C creates a harmonic loop that feels both complete and constantly forward-moving.

Learning Riptide as a Beginner

If you're learning to play Riptide, 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
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Em – G – D – A7sus4
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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 100 BPM
🎼 Tuner
Tune your instrument
🎹 Piano
Play on virtual piano
🎸 Guitar
Play on fretboard

FAQ

Riptide by Vance Joy — FAQ

What chords are in Riptide by Vance Joy?
Riptide uses the chords Am, G, C, F in the key of C. The progression follows a vi–V–I–IV pattern. This is a beginner-level song.
What key is Riptide in?
Riptide by Vance Joy is in the key of C. The primary chords are Am, G, C.
What is the tempo of Riptide?
Riptide is played at approximately 100 BPM. This moderate tempo is comfortable for intermediate players. Use our free metronome to practice at exactly 100 BPM.
What strumming pattern does Riptide use?
Riptide 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 Am chord on guitar?
Am is the main chord in Riptide. For Am: 2nd fret 4th string, 2nd fret 3rd string, 1st fret 2nd string. Others open.
Can I play Riptide on piano?
Yes! Riptide sounds great on piano. Play the chords Am, G, C, F 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 Riptide beginner-friendly?
Yes! Riptide is rated Beginner difficulty. It uses 4 main chords (Am, G, C), all easy open or basic chords. One of the best songs for new players to learn.
What is the chord progression in Riptide?
The main progression in Riptide is Am – G – C – F (Roman numeral: vi–V–I–IV). This 4-chord pattern repeats throughout most of the song.
Can I transpose Riptide to a different key?
Yes! Riptide 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 Riptide?
Riptide by Vance Joy is a Indie song from 2013. Its 4-chord progression (Am, G, C, F) translates naturally to different tempos and styles, making it a popular cover choice for musicians of all levels.