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Pop · 2014 · Beginner

Shake It Off

by Taylor Swift
Key of G160 BPMBeginner

Chord Sheet

Key of G · Progression: I–ii–IV

G
chord 1
Am
chord 2
C
chord 3
Chord Loop
G — Am — C — ...
Key
G
Tempo
160 BPM
Chords
3
Genre
Pop

🎵 Practice Tips for Shake It Off

  • →Start at 80 BPM (50% tempo) until chord changes feel smooth.
  • →Loop just the G→Am transition repeatedly — this is often the hardest change.
  • →Use our Metronome set to 160 BPM for precise timing practice.
  • →Click any chord above to see its full piano keyboard and guitar fingering diagram.

How to Play Shake It Off by Taylor Swift

Shake It Off (2014) is a beginner-level pop song that uses 3 chords: G, Am, C in the key of G. The chord progression is I–ii–IV.

Chord Breakdown

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

About Shake It Off

"Shake It Off" by Taylor Swift (released 2014) is one of the most recognizable pop songs ever recorded. Its 3-chord structure demonstrates how a simple progression can create an emotionally powerful and memorable piece of music. The combination of G, Am, C creates a harmonic loop that feels both complete and constantly forward-moving.

Learning Shake It Off as a Beginner

If you're learning to play Shake It Off, 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 160 BPM
🎼 Tuner
Tune your instrument
🎹 Piano
Play on virtual piano
🎸 Guitar
Play on fretboard

FAQ

Shake It Off by Taylor Swift — FAQ

What chords are in Shake It Off by Taylor Swift?
Shake It Off uses the chords G, Am, C in the key of G. The progression follows a I–ii–IV pattern. This is a beginner-level song.
What key is Shake It Off in?
Shake It Off by Taylor Swift is in the key of G. The primary chords are G, Am, C.
What is the tempo of Shake It Off?
Shake It Off is played at approximately 160 BPM. This is a faster tempo — practice slowly first before bringing it to full speed. Use our free metronome to practice at exactly 160 BPM.
What strumming pattern does Shake It Off use?
Shake It Off 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 Shake It Off. Place fingers on: 3rd fret 6th string (E), 2nd fret 5th string (A), 3rd fret 1st string (e).
Can I play Shake It Off on piano?
Yes! Shake It Off sounds great on piano. Play the chords G, Am, C 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 Shake It Off beginner-friendly?
Yes! Shake It Off is rated Beginner difficulty. It uses 3 main chords (G, Am, C), all easy open or basic chords. One of the best songs for new players to learn.
What is the chord progression in Shake It Off?
The main progression in Shake It Off is G – Am – C (Roman numeral: I–ii–IV). This 3-chord pattern repeats throughout most of the song.
Can I transpose Shake It Off to a different key?
Yes! Shake It Off 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 Shake It Off?
Shake It Off by Taylor Swift is a Pop song from 2014. Its 3-chord progression (G, Am, C) translates naturally to different tempos and styles, making it a popular cover choice for musicians of all levels.