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Key
D
Difficulty
Intermediate
Capo
None
Chords
D · Em · G · Bm · A
Iris Chords – Guitar
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Key
D
Difficulty
Intermediate
Tuning
G-C-E-A
Chords
D · Em · G · Bm · A
Iris Chords – Ukulele
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Key
D
Difficulty
Intermediate
Left Hand
Root notes
Chords
D · Em · G · Bm · A
Iris Chords – Piano
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Key
D
Difficulty
Intermediate
Tuning
gDGBD (Open G)
Chords
D · Em · G · Bm · A
Iris Chords – Banjo
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Key
D
Difficulty
Intermediate
Tuning
G-D-A-E
Chords
D · Em · G · Bm · A
Iris Chords – Mandolin
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Key
D
Difficulty
Intermediate
Harp Key
C Diatonic
Chords
D · Em · G · Bm · A
Iris Chords – Harmonica
One of the most iconic alternative rock ballads of the 90s. The original uses an unusual open tuning, but standard tuning works great.
Power Ballad (4/4 Time)
↓↓↑↑↓↑
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Tip: The original recording uses BDDDDD tuning which is very specific. In standard tuning, use a capo on fret 2 and play C-Em-G-Am shapes for an easier version. The song builds from gentle picking to powerful strumming.
Chords & Structure
Full Song
Verse 1
D – Em
G – Bm
D – Em
G – Bm
Chorus
D – Em
G – Bm
D – Em
G – Bm – D
How to Play
Step-by-Step Guide
1
Learn the chords
This song uses 5 chords in the key of D: D Em G Bm A. 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.
Tip: Bm trips up most beginners — try Bm7 or a partial shape first, then move to the full barre once your changes are clean.
Frequently Asked Questions
What chords do you need to play "Iris"?
You need 5 intermediate-friendly chords: D, Em, G, Bm and A.
Is "Iris" easy to play on guitar?
It is rated intermediate and uses only 5 chords in the key of D, making it a good choice for players at that level.
What key is "Iris" in?
It is in the key of D.
Who wrote "Iris"?
It was written by John Rzeznik, and released in 1998.