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Key
A
Difficulty
Beginner
Capo
None
Chords
A · E · D
Cripple Creek Chords – Guitar
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Key
A
Difficulty
Beginner
Tuning
G-C-E-A
Chords
A · E · D
Cripple Creek Chords – Ukulele
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Key
A
Difficulty
Beginner
Left Hand
Root notes
Chords
A · E · D
Cripple Creek Chords – Piano
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Key
A
Difficulty
Beginner
Tuning
gDGBD (Open G)
Chords
A · E · D
Cripple Creek Chords – Banjo
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Key
A
Difficulty
Beginner
Tuning
G-D-A-E
Chords
A · E · D
Cripple Creek Chords – Mandolin
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Key
A
Difficulty
Beginner
Harp Key
C Diatonic
Chords
A · E · D
Cripple Creek Chords – Harmonica
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Key
A
Difficulty
Beginner
Tuning
G-D-A-E
Chords
A · E · D
Cripple Creek Chords – Violin
The first song every banjo player learns. A driving bluegrass standard with three chords and a memorable melody.
Chords used: A, E, D · Key: A · Difficulty: Beginner · More 3-chord songs →
Clawhammer Pattern
↓↑↓↑
1234
Tip: On banjo, play this using clawhammer or three-finger picking style. The melody is on the first two strings with the 5th string drone.
Chords & Structure
Full Song
Verse 1
A
A – E
A – D
A – E – A
Chorus
A
A – E
A – D
A – E – A
How to Play
Step-by-Step Guide
1
Learn the chords
This song uses 3 chords in the key of A: A E D. 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 "Cripple Creek"?
You need 3 beginner-friendly chords: A, E and D.
Is "Cripple Creek" easy to play on guitar?
It is rated beginner and uses only 3 chords in the key of A, making it a good choice for players at that level.
What key is "Cripple Creek" in?
It is in the key of A.
Who wrote "Cripple Creek"?
It was written by Traditional.