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Key
E
Difficulty
Beginner
Capo
None
Chords
Em · C · G · D
Boys of Summer Chords – Guitar
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Key
E
Difficulty
Beginner
Tuning
G-C-E-A
Chords
Em · C · G · D
Boys of Summer Chords – Ukulele
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Key
E
Difficulty
Beginner
Left Hand
Root notes
Chords
Em · C · G · D
Boys of Summer Chords – Piano
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Key
E
Difficulty
Beginner
Tuning
gDGBD (Open G)
Chords
Em · C · G · D
Boys of Summer Chords – Banjo
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Key
E
Difficulty
Beginner
Tuning
G-D-A-E
Chords
Em · C · G · D
Boys of Summer Chords – Mandolin
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Key
E
Difficulty
Beginner
Harp Key
C Diatonic
Chords
Em · C · G · D
Boys of Summer Chords – Harmonica
Don Henley’s nostalgic hit about lost love and summer memories. Beginner difficulty in the key of E.
Driving Rock (4/4 Time)
↓↓↑↑↓↑
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Tip: Use a capo on the 2nd fret and play the G, C, D, and Em shapes listed to sound in the key of E.
Chords & Structure
Full Song
Verse 1
G – C – D (×2)
G – C – D – Em (×2)
Chorus
G – C – D (×3)
G – C
Verse 2
G – C – D (×2)
G – C – D – Em
G – C – D
Chorus
G – C – D (×3)
G – C
Bridge
Em – C – D (×2)
Em – C
D – Em
Chorus
G – C – D (×3)
G – C
Outro
G – C – D (×5)
G – C (×3)
Practice tip: Master the G to C and C to D transitions first, as they are the most common in this song. Strum lightly on the verses and put more energy into the chorus.
Frequently Asked Questions
What chords do you need to play "Boys of Summer"?
You need 4 beginner-friendly chords: Em, C, G and D.
Is "Boys of Summer" easy to play on guitar?
It is rated beginner and uses only 4 chords in the key of E, making it a good choice for players at that level.
What key is "Boys of Summer" in?
It is in the key of E.
Who wrote "Boys of Summer"?
It was written by Don Henley, Mike Campbell, and released in 1984.