Ctap to play
Gtap to play
Key
C
Difficulty
Beginner
Capo
None
Chords
C · G
Iko Iko Chords – Guitar
Ctap to play
Gtap to play
Key
C
Difficulty
Beginner
Tuning
G-C-E-A
Chords
C · G
Iko Iko Chords – Ukulele
Ctap to play
Gtap to play
Key
C
Difficulty
Beginner
Left Hand
Root notes
Chords
C · G
Iko Iko Chords – Piano
Ctap to play
Gtap to play
Key
C
Difficulty
Beginner
Tuning
gDGBD (Open G)
Chords
C · G
Iko Iko Chords – Banjo
Ctap to play
Gtap to play
Key
C
Difficulty
Beginner
Tuning
G-D-A-E
Chords
C · G
Iko Iko Chords – Mandolin
Ctap to play
Gtap to play
Key
C
Difficulty
Beginner
Harp Key
C Diatonic
Chords
C · G
Iko Iko Chords – Harmonica
New Orleans party anthem with only two chords. Irresistibly fun on guitar, ukulele, or piano.
Chords used: C, G · Key: C · Difficulty: Beginner · More 2-chord songs →
Island Strum (4/4 Time)
↓↑↓↑
1234
Tip: Give it a Caribbean island strum feel. Mute on beat 1, open strum on the and of 1. Keep it bouncy.
Chords & Structure
Full Song
Verse 1
C (×2)
Chorus
G
C
G
C
How to Play
Step-by-Step Guide
1
Learn the chords
This song uses 2 chords in the key of C: C G. 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 "Iko Iko"?
You need 2 beginner-friendly chords: C and G.
Is "Iko Iko" easy to play on guitar?
It is rated beginner and uses only 2 chords in the key of C, making it a good choice for players at that level.
What key is "Iko Iko" in?
It is in the key of C.
Who wrote "Iko Iko"?
It was written by The Dixie Cups.