Gtap to play
Dtap to play
Amtap to play
Ctap to play
Key
G
Difficulty
Beginner
Capo
None
Chords
G · D · Am · C
Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door Chords – Guitar
Gtap to play
Dtap to play
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Key
G
Difficulty
Beginner
Tuning
G-C-E-A
Chords
G · D · Am · C
Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door Chords – Ukulele
Gtap to play
Dtap to play
Amtap to play
Ctap to play
Key
G
Difficulty
Beginner
Left Hand
Root notes
Chords
G · D · Am · C
Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door Chords – Piano
Gtap to play
Dtap to play
Amtap to play
Ctap to play
Key
G
Difficulty
Beginner
Tuning
gDGBD (Open G)
Chords
G · D · Am · C
Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door Chords – Banjo
Gtap to play
Dtap to play
Amtap to play
Ctap to play
Key
G
Difficulty
Beginner
Tuning
G-D-A-E
Chords
G · D · Am · C
Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door Chords – Mandolin
Gtap to play
Dtap to play
Amtap to play
Ctap to play
Key
G
Difficulty
Beginner
Harp Key
C Diatonic
Chords
G · D · Am · C
Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door Chords – Harmonica
One of the most covered songs in music history, and a perfect first song for any guitarist. Four chords, a gentle strum, and a melody that everyone knows.
Strumming Pattern (4/4 Time)
↓↓↑↑↓↑
123456
Tip: Keep the strumming hand moving in a steady down-up motion, even when you skip a strum. This keeps your rhythm locked.
How to play
Step-by-Step Guide
1
Learn the four chords
You need G, D, Am, and C. These are the four most common open chords in guitar — master these and hundreds of songs open up.
2
Get the rhythm
This song has a slow, steady 4/4 feel. Strum down on beats 1 and 2, then down-up-down-up on beats 3 and 4. Keep it relaxed and gentle.
3
Learn the two-bar pattern
The verse repeats: G, D, Am then G, D, C. Two bars each. Play through this progression until it feels automatic.
4
Sing along
The melody is simple and stays within a narrow range. Start by humming, then add the words once your strumming is steady.
Chords & Structure
Full Song — Guitar Version
Verse 1
G – D – Am
G – D – C
G – D – Am
G – D – C
Chorus
G – D – Am
G – D – C
G – D – Am
G – D – C
Verse 2
G – D – Am
G – D – C
G – D – Am
G – D – C
Practice tip: Focus on making clean chord changes. The G to D switch is smooth if you keep your ring finger as an anchor. Practice the two-bar progression at half speed until it clicks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What chords do you need to play "Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door"?
You need 4 beginner-friendly chords: G, D, Am and C.
Is "Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door" easy to play on guitar?
It is rated beginner and uses only 4 chords in the key of G, making it a good choice for players at that level.
What key is "Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door" in?
It is in the key of G.
Who wrote "Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door"?
It was written by Bob Dylan.