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Pop · 2014 · Beginner

Thinking Out Loud

by Ed Sheeran
Key of D79 BPMBeginner

Chord Sheet

Key of D · Progression: I–IV–V–vi

D
chord 1
G
chord 2
A
chord 3
Bm
chord 4
Chord Loop
D — G — A — Bm — ...
Key
D
Tempo
79 BPM
Chords
4
Genre
Pop

🎵 Practice Tips for Thinking Out Loud

  • →Start at 40 BPM (50% tempo) until chord changes feel smooth.
  • →Loop just the D→G transition repeatedly — this is often the hardest change.
  • →Use our Metronome set to 79 BPM for precise timing practice.
  • →Click any chord above to see its full piano keyboard and guitar fingering diagram.

How to Play Thinking Out Loud by Ed Sheeran

Thinking Out Loud (2014) is a beginner-level pop song that uses 4 chords: D, G, A, Bm in the key of D. The chord progression is I–IV–V–vi.

Chord Breakdown

  • D — major chord, bright and stable
  • G — major chord, bright and stable
  • A — major chord, bright and stable
  • Bm — minor chord, darker emotional sound

About Thinking Out Loud

"Thinking Out Loud" by Ed Sheeran (released 2014) 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 D, G, A creates a harmonic loop that feels both complete and constantly forward-moving.

Learning Thinking Out Loud as a Beginner

If you're learning to play Thinking Out Loud, 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)

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A – F#m – D – E
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🎵 Metronome
Practice at 79 BPM
🎼 Tuner
Tune your instrument
🎹 Piano
Play on virtual piano
🎸 Guitar
Play on fretboard

FAQ

Thinking Out Loud by Ed Sheeran — FAQ

What chords are in Thinking Out Loud by Ed Sheeran?
Thinking Out Loud uses the chords D, G, A, Bm in the key of D. The progression follows a I–IV–V–vi pattern. This is a beginner-level song.
What key is Thinking Out Loud in?
Thinking Out Loud by Ed Sheeran is in the key of D. The primary chords are D, G, A.
What is the tempo of Thinking Out Loud?
Thinking Out Loud is played at approximately 79 BPM. This slow tempo is great for beginners to focus on chord transitions. Use our free metronome to practice at exactly 79 BPM.
What strumming pattern does Thinking Out Loud use?
Thinking Out Loud 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 D chord on guitar?
D is the main chord in Thinking Out Loud. See our chord library for the D chord diagram with exact fingering.
Can I play Thinking Out Loud on piano?
Yes! Thinking Out Loud sounds great on piano. Play the chords D, G, A, Bm 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 Thinking Out Loud beginner-friendly?
Yes! Thinking Out Loud is rated Beginner difficulty. It uses 4 main chords (D, G, A), all easy open or basic chords. One of the best songs for new players to learn.
What is the chord progression in Thinking Out Loud?
The main progression in Thinking Out Loud is D – G – A – Bm (Roman numeral: I–IV–V–vi). This 4-chord pattern repeats throughout most of the song.
Can I transpose Thinking Out Loud to a different key?
Yes! Thinking Out Loud is in D. 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 Thinking Out Loud?
Thinking Out Loud by Ed Sheeran is a Pop song from 2014. Its 4-chord progression (D, G, A, Bm) translates naturally to different tempos and styles, making it a popular cover choice for musicians of all levels.