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Key
C
Difficulty
Beginner
Capo
None
Chords
C · G · F
Happy Birthday Chords – Guitar
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Key
C
Difficulty
Beginner
Tuning
G-C-E-A
Chords
C · G · F
Happy Birthday Chords – Ukulele
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Key
C
Difficulty
Beginner
Left Hand
Root notes
Chords
C · G · F
Happy Birthday Chords – Piano
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Key
C
Difficulty
Beginner
Tuning
gDGBD (Open G)
Chords
C · G · F
Happy Birthday Chords – Banjo
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Key
C
Difficulty
Beginner
Tuning
G-D-A-E
Chords
C · G · F
Happy Birthday Chords – Mandolin
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Key
C
Difficulty
Beginner
Harp Key
C Diatonic
Chords
C · G · F
Happy Birthday Chords – Harmonica
How to Play
Step-by-Step Guide
Chords used: C, G, F · Key: C · Difficulty: Beginner · More 3-chord songs →
1
Three chords
C, G, and F. Everyone needs to know this song!
2
Waltz time
3/4 time signature. Count 1-2-3 for each measure.
Song Details
Key, Tuning & Capo
Original key: A · Tuning: Standard (E A D G B E) · Capo: None — the open chords match the recording.
Playing tip: The full F barre is the hardest part — use Fmaj7 (skip the low E and A strings) while you build strength.
Chords & Structure
Full Song
Full Song
C – G
C
C – F
C – G – C
Frequently Asked Questions
What chords do you need to play "Happy Birthday"?
You need 3 Beginner-friendly chords: C, G and F.
Is "Happy Birthday" easy to play on guitar?
It is rated Beginner and uses only 3 chords in the key of C, making it a good choice for players at that level.
What key is "Happy Birthday" in?
It is in the key of C.
Who wrote "Happy Birthday"?
It was written by Traditional.