Rock

Bad Moon Rising Chords

Creedence Clearwater Revival Beginner Key of D 3 Chords 2 min read Updated Jul 2026

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Key

D

Difficulty

Beginner

Capo

None

Chords

D · A · G

Bad Moon Rising Chords – Guitar

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Key

D

Difficulty

Beginner

Tuning

G-C-E-A

Chords

D · A · G

Bad Moon Rising Chords – Ukulele

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Key

D

Difficulty

Beginner

Left Hand

Root notes

Chords

D · A · G

Bad Moon Rising Chords – Piano

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Key

D

Difficulty

Beginner

Tuning

gDGBD (Open G)

Chords

D · A · G

Bad Moon Rising Chords – Banjo

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Key

D

Difficulty

Beginner

Tuning

G-D-A-E

Chords

D · A · G

Bad Moon Rising Chords – Mandolin

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Key

D

Difficulty

Beginner

Harp Key

C Diatonic

Chords

D · A · G

Bad Moon Rising Chords – Harmonica

A Creedence Clearwater Revival classic that sounds complex but uses just three chords. The upbeat tempo and driving rhythm make this an energizing song to play.

Chords used: D, A, G · Key: D · Difficulty: Beginner · More 3-chord songs →

Strumming Pattern (4/4 Time)

↓↑↓↑↓↑

123456

Tip: This song is faster than it seems. Start at half speed and gradually build up. The constant down-up strumming drives the energy.

How to play

Step-by-Step Guide

1

Learn the three chords

You need D, A, and G. That is it — three major chords in a repeating pattern.

2

Nail the fast strum

The strumming is constant eighth notes: down-up-down-up. Keep your wrist loose and relaxed. Tension is your enemy at this tempo.

3

Learn the progression

Verse: D-A-G-D. Chorus: G-D-A-G-D. The changes come quickly at full speed, so drill them slowly first.

4

Add energy

This song is all about attitude. Strum hard, sing loud, and lean into the rhythm. It should feel urgent and driving.

Chords & Structure

Full Song — Guitar Version

Verse 1

D – A – G – D (×4)

Chorus

G

D

A – G – D

Verse 2

D – A – G – D (×4)

Practice tip: Use a metronome. Start at 80 BPM and increase by 5 BPM each day until you reach the full tempo of about 170 BPM. Speed is built gradually, not forced.

Frequently Asked Questions

What chords do you need to play "Bad Moon Rising"?

You need 3 beginner-friendly chords: D, A and G.

Is "Bad Moon Rising" easy to play on guitar?

It is rated beginner and uses only 3 chords in the key of D, making it a good choice for players at that level.

What key is "Bad Moon Rising" in?

It is in the key of D.

Who wrote "Bad Moon Rising"?

It was written by Creedence Clearwater Revival.