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Key
A
Difficulty
Intermediate
Capo
None
Chords
A · D · F · G
Heart Shaped Box Chords – Guitar
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Key
A
Difficulty
Intermediate
Tuning
G-C-E-A
Chords
A · D · F · G
Heart Shaped Box Chords – Ukulele
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Key
A
Difficulty
Intermediate
Left Hand
Root notes
Chords
A · D · F · G
Heart Shaped Box Chords – Piano
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Key
A
Difficulty
Intermediate
Tuning
gDGBD (Open G)
Chords
A · D · F · G
Heart Shaped Box Chords – Banjo
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Key
A
Difficulty
Intermediate
Tuning
G-D-A-E
Chords
A · D · F · G
Heart Shaped Box Chords – Mandolin
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Key
A
Difficulty
Intermediate
Harp Key
C Diatonic
Chords
A · D · F · G
Heart Shaped Box Chords – Harmonica
Nirvana’s dark, powerful single from In Utero has a droning, hypnotic quality. The unusual A-to-F movement gives the song its unsettling character.
Grunge Heavy (4/4 Time)
↓↓↑↓↓↑
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Tip: The verse is softer and more restrained, while the chorus explodes. Use palm muting on the verse strums and open the chords up for the chorus. The A-F shift is key to the Nirvana sound.
Chords & Structure
Full Song
Verse 1
A – D – F (×4)
Chorus
A – G – A – G (×4)
Verse 2
A – D – F (×4)
Frequently Asked Questions
What chords do you need to play "Heart Shaped Box"?
You need 4 intermediate-friendly chords: A, D, F and G.
Is "Heart Shaped Box" easy to play on guitar?
It is rated intermediate and uses only 4 chords in the key of A, making it a good choice for players at that level.
What key is "Heart Shaped Box" in?
It is in the key of A.
Who wrote "Heart Shaped Box"?
It was written by Kurt Cobain, and released in 1993.