Emtap to play
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Key
E
Difficulty
Beginner
Capo
None
Chords
Em · G · D · A
Mad World Chords – Guitar
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Key
E
Difficulty
Beginner
Tuning
G-C-E-A
Chords
Em · G · D · A
Mad World Chords – Ukulele
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Key
E
Difficulty
Beginner
Left Hand
Root notes
Chords
Em · G · D · A
Mad World Chords – Piano
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Key
E
Difficulty
Beginner
Tuning
gDGBD (Open G)
Chords
Em · G · D · A
Mad World Chords – Banjo
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Key
E
Difficulty
Beginner
Tuning
G-D-A-E
Chords
Em · G · D · A
Mad World Chords – Mandolin
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Key
E
Difficulty
Beginner
Harp Key
C Diatonic
Chords
Em · G · D · A
Mad World Chords – Harmonica
Gary Jules’s haunting cover of a melancholic synth-pop song. Beginner difficulty in the key of E.
Slow Ballad (4/4 Time)
↓↑↓↑
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Tip: Use a slow, steady down-up strum and let the chords ring out.
Chords & Structure
Full Song
Verse 1
E
C#m
F#m
A
E
C#m
F#m
A
Chorus
E
C#m
F#m
A
E – C#m
Verse 2
E
C#m
F#m
A
E
C#m
F#m
A
Chorus
E
C#m
F#m
A
E – C#m
Bridge
A
F#m
Chorus
E
C#m
F#m
A
E – C#m
Practice tip: Master the E, C#m, F#m, and A chord shapes first, then practice the simple, repeating progression slowly before adding the vocal melody.
Frequently Asked Questions
What chords do you need to play "Mad World"?
You need 4 beginner-friendly chords: Em, G, D and A.
Is "Mad World" easy to play on guitar?
It is rated beginner and uses only 4 chords in the key of E, making it a good choice for players at that level.
What key is "Mad World" in?
It is in the key of E.
Who wrote "Mad World"?
It was written by Roland Orzabal, and released in 1982.