Ebtap to play
Bbmtap to play
Fmtap to play
Key
Eb
Difficulty
Intermediate
Capo
None
Chords
Eb · Bbm · Fm
Clocks Chords – Guitar
Ebtap to play
Bbmtap to play
Fmtap to play
Key
Eb
Difficulty
Intermediate
Tuning
G-C-E-A
Chords
Eb · Bbm · Fm
Clocks Chords – Ukulele
Ebtap to play
Bbmtap to play
Fmtap to play
Key
Eb
Difficulty
Intermediate
Left Hand
Root notes
Chords
Eb · Bbm · Fm
Clocks Chords – Piano
Ebtap to play
Bbmtap to play
Fmtap to play
Key
Eb
Difficulty
Intermediate
Tuning
gDGBD (Open G)
Chords
Eb · Bbm · Fm
Clocks Chords – Banjo
Ebtap to play
Bbmtap to play
Fmtap to play
Key
Eb
Difficulty
Intermediate
Tuning
G-D-A-E
Chords
Eb · Bbm · Fm
Clocks Chords – Mandolin
Ebtap to play
Bbmtap to play
Fmtap to play
Key
Eb
Difficulty
Intermediate
Harp Key
C Diatonic
Chords
Eb · Bbm · Fm
Clocks Chords – Harmonica
Coldplay’s iconic piano riff is instantly recognizable. Three chords in a repeating arpeggio pattern.
Chords used: Eb, Bbm, Fm · Key: Eb · Difficulty: Intermediate · More 3-chord songs →
Tip: The piano riff uses arpeggiated eighth notes in groups of three. Right hand plays broken chords while left hand holds bass notes.
Chords & Structure
Full Song
Verse 1
Eb – Bbm
Fm
Eb – Bbm
Fm
Chorus
Eb – Bbm
Fm
Eb – Bbm
Fm
How to Play
Step-by-Step Guide
1
Learn the chords
This song uses 3 chords in the key of Eb: Eb Bbm Fm. Get each shape clean on its own first.
2
Practice the changes
Switch slowly between the two hardest chords in a loop until the move feels automatic — no strumming yet.
3
Add the strumming
Bring in a simple down-strum once the changes are smooth, then build up to the song’s rhythm.
4
Play along
Play with the original track to lock in the timing and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What chords do you need to play "Clocks"?
You need 3 intermediate-friendly chords: Eb, Bbm and Fm.
Is "Clocks" easy to play on guitar?
It is rated intermediate and uses only 3 chords in the key of Eb, making it a good choice for players at that level.
What key is "Clocks" in?
It is in the key of Eb.
Who wrote "Clocks"?
It was written by Coldplay.