Folk,Pop

Hallelujah Chords

Leonard Cohen Easy Key of C 4 Chords 3 min read Updated Jul 2026

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Key

C

Difficulty

Easy

Capo

None

Chords

C · Am · F · G

Hallelujah Chords – Guitar

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Key

C

Difficulty

Easy

Tuning

G-C-E-A

Chords

C · Am · F · G

Hallelujah Chords – Ukulele

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Key

C

Difficulty

Easy

Left Hand

Root notes

Chords

C · Am · F · G

Hallelujah Chords – Piano

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Key

C

Difficulty

Easy

Tuning

gDGBD (Open G)

Chords

C · Am · F · G

Hallelujah Chords – Banjo

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Key

C

Difficulty

Easy

Tuning

G-D-A-E

Chords

C · Am · F · G

Hallelujah Chords – Mandolin

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Key

C

Difficulty

Easy

Harp Key

C Diatonic

Chords

C · Am · F · G

Hallelujah Chords – Harmonica

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Key

C

Difficulty

Easy

Tuning

G-D-A-E

Chords

C · Am · F · G

Hallelujah Chords – Violin

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Key

C

Difficulty

Easy

Range

Varies by singer

Chords

C · Am · F · G

Hallelujah Chords – Vocal

Leonard Cohen’s masterpiece is one of the most covered songs in history. The fingerpicked arpeggios and haunting melody create an experience that transcends genres.

Chords used: C, Am, F, G · Key: C · Difficulty: Easy

Strumming Pattern (6/8 Time)

↓↓↑↑↓↑

123456

Tip: Fingerpick this song if possible. The arpeggiated chords in 6/8 time are what give Hallelujah its hypnotic, meditative quality.

How to play

Step-by-Step Guide

1

Learn the four chords

You need C, Am, F, and G. The verse uses C-Am-C-Am-F-G-C-G. The chorus uses F-Am-F-C-G-C.

2

Feel the 6/8 time

Count “1-2-3-4-5-6.” The song has a rolling, wave-like feel. Each chord gets a full measure of six beats.

3

Try fingerpicking

The classic arrangement uses arpeggios. Pick bass note, then roll through the strings upward. This creates the song’s signature sound.

4

Build emotional dynamics

Start almost whispering. Build through each verse. Let the “Hallelujah” ring out with full emotion and volume.

5

Learn all the verses

Cohen wrote 80 verses. The commonly performed ones tell a story from biblical to personal. Learn at least 4 verses for a complete performance.

Song Details

Key, Tuning & Capo

Original key: D♭ · Tuning: Standard (E A D G B E) · Capo: 1st fret to play along with the original recording.

Playing tip: The F barre is the tough one. Use Fmaj7 (skip the low E and A) while you build strength.

Chords & Structure

Full Song — Guitar Version

Verse 1

C – Am (×2)

F – G – C – G

Verse 2

C – F – G

Am – F

G – Am – F

Chorus

F – Am – F – C

F – Am – G – C

Practice tip: This song rewards patience. Spend a week on just the fingerpicking pattern before attempting to sing. When your right hand moves without thinking, the song will come alive.

Frequently Asked Questions

What chords do you need to play "Hallelujah"?

You need 4 easy-friendly chords: C, Am, F and G.

Is "Hallelujah" easy to play on guitar?

It is rated easy and uses only 4 chords in the key of C, making it a good choice for players at that level.

What key is "Hallelujah" in?

It is in the key of C.

Who wrote "Hallelujah"?

It was written by Leonard Cohen.