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Key
E
Difficulty
Intermediate
Capo
None
Chords
E · A · B · C#m
Born to Run Chords – Guitar
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Key
E
Difficulty
Intermediate
Tuning
G-C-E-A
Chords
E · A · B · C#m
Born to Run Chords – Ukulele
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Key
E
Difficulty
Intermediate
Left Hand
Root notes
Chords
E · A · B · C#m
Born to Run Chords – Piano
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Key
E
Difficulty
Intermediate
Tuning
gDGBD (Open G)
Chords
E · A · B · C#m
Born to Run Chords – Banjo
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Key
E
Difficulty
Intermediate
Tuning
G-D-A-E
Chords
E · A · B · C#m
Born to Run Chords – Mandolin
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Key
E
Difficulty
Intermediate
Harp Key
C Diatonic
Chords
E · A · B · C#m
Born to Run Chords – Harmonica
Bruce Springsteen’s explosive rock anthem about escaping small-town life. Intermediate difficulty in the key of E.
Power Rock (4/4 Time)
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Tip: Play with urgency and passion. This song builds from a rumbling verse to an explosive chorus — match that energy with your strumming dynamics.
Chords & Structure
Full Song
Verse 1
E
A – E
E
A – E
Verse 2
E
A
B – E
Chorus
E – A
B – E
A
B
A – E
Verse 3
E
A – E
Verse 4
E
A – B (×2)
E – A
Chorus
E – A
B – E
A
B
A – E
Verse 5
E
A – E
E
A – B
A – E
Final Chorus
E – A
B – E
A
B – A – E
Practice tip: Three main chords (E, A, B) power this song. The key is building energy — start the verses with a moderate strum and explode on the chorus. The B chord is a barre chord; try B7 as an easier substitute.
Frequently Asked Questions
What chords do you need to play "Born to Run"?
You need 4 intermediate-friendly chords: E, A, B and C#m.
Is "Born to Run" easy to play on guitar?
It is rated intermediate and uses only 4 chords in the key of E, making it a good choice for players at that level.
What key is "Born to Run" in?
It is in the key of E.
Who wrote "Born to Run"?
It was written by Bruce Springsteen, and released in 1975.