Atap to play
Etap to play
F#mtap to play
Dtap to play
Key
A Major
Difficulty
Easy
Capo
None
Chords
A · E · F#m · D
Adele’s heartbreak anthem showcases the power of a simple piano part paired with an incredible vocal. Four chords and an arpeggiated pattern create devastating emotional beauty.
Arpeggio Pattern (4/4 Time)
↓↑↓↑
1234
Tip: The right hand plays broken chords in a specific rolling pattern while the left hand plays octave bass notes. Keep the sustain pedal down and let everything blend.
How to play
Step-by-Step Guide
1
Learn the four chords
You need A, E, F#m, and D. The verse uses A-E-F#m-D. The chorus uses D-E-A-F#m-D-E.
2
Master the arpeggio pattern
Right hand rolls through the chord tones: root-3rd-5th-octave-5th-3rd. This creates the signature cascading sound.
3
Build the dynamics
Start the verse gently — almost bare. Let the pre-chorus build. The chorus should feel like an emotional dam breaking.
4
Feel the heartbreak
This song lives or dies on emotional delivery. Every chord change should feel like a wave of feeling washing over you.
Lyrics & Chords
Full Song — Guitar Version
Verse 1
A E
I heard that you’re settled down
F#m D
That you found a girl and you’re married now
A E
I heard that your dreams came true
F#m D
Guess she gave you things I didn’t give to you
Chorus
D E A F#m
Never mind, I’ll find someone like you
D E A F#m
I wish nothing but the best for you too
D E A
Don’t forget me, I beg
F#m D
I remember you said
E A D
Sometimes it lasts in love but sometimes it hurts instead
Practice tip: The arpeggio pattern in the right hand needs to become completely automatic before you attempt to sing. Practice the piano part for a full week before adding vocals.