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Key
C
Difficulty
Beginner
Capo
None
Chords
C · Am · Em · G
For Emma Chords – Guitar
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Key
C
Difficulty
Beginner
Tuning
G-C-E-A
Chords
C · Am · Em · G
For Emma Chords – Ukulele
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Key
C
Difficulty
Beginner
Left Hand
Root notes
Chords
C · Am · Em · G
For Emma Chords – Piano
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Key
C
Difficulty
Beginner
Tuning
gDGBD (Open G)
Chords
C · Am · Em · G
For Emma Chords – Banjo
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Key
C
Difficulty
Beginner
Tuning
G-D-A-E
Chords
C · Am · Em · G
For Emma Chords – Mandolin
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Key
C
Difficulty
Beginner
Harp Key
C Diatonic
Chords
C · Am · Em · G
For Emma Chords – Harmonica
Bon Iver’s melancholic and atmospheric indie folk song about lost love and reflection. Beginner difficulty in the key of C.
Folk Strum (4/4 Time)
↓↓↑↑↓↑
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Tip: Play with a gentle, steady rhythm to match the song’s somber mood.
Chords & Structure
Full Song
Verse 1
C – G
Am – F – C – G
C – G
Am – F – C – G
Chorus
F – C
G
F – C – G
F – C
G
F – C – G
Verse 2
C – G
Am – F – C – G
C – G
Am – F – C – G
Chorus
F – C
G
F – C – G
F – C
G
F – C – G
Bridge
Am – F – C (×4)
Chorus
F – C
G
F – C – G
F – C
G
F – C – G
Practice tip: Practice the F to C transition, as it’s central to the song; use a simple down-strum on each chord change to get comfortable before adding the full strum pattern.
Frequently Asked Questions
What chords do you need to play "For Emma"?
You need 4 beginner-friendly chords: C, Am, Em and G.
Is "For Emma" easy to play on guitar?
It is rated beginner and uses only 4 chords in the key of C, making it a good choice for players at that level.
What key is "For Emma" in?
It is in the key of C.
Who wrote "For Emma"?
It was written by Justin Vernon, and released in 2007.