Amtap to play
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Ftap to play
Key
C
Difficulty
Beginner
Capo
None
Chords
Am · C · G · F
New Slang Chords – Guitar
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Key
C
Difficulty
Beginner
Tuning
G-C-E-A
Chords
Am · C · G · F
New Slang Chords – Ukulele
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Key
C
Difficulty
Beginner
Left Hand
Root notes
Chords
Am · C · G · F
New Slang Chords – Piano
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Key
C
Difficulty
Beginner
Tuning
gDGBD (Open G)
Chords
Am · C · G · F
New Slang Chords – Banjo
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Key
C
Difficulty
Beginner
Tuning
G-D-A-E
Chords
Am · C · G · F
New Slang Chords – Mandolin
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Key
C
Difficulty
Beginner
Harp Key
C Diatonic
Chords
Am · C · G · F
New Slang Chords – Harmonica
A jangly indie folk song by The Shins. Beginner difficulty in the key of C.
Folk Strum (4/4 Time)
↓↓↑↑↓↑
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Tip: Use a capo on the 2nd fret to match the original recording’s key of D, but these chords are written for open position in C.
Chords & Structure
Full Song
Verse 1
C – G – Am
F – C
G – Am – F
C – G
Chorus
F – C – G
F – C – G – Am – F
C – G
Verse 2
C – G – Am
F – C
G – Am – F
C – G
Chorus
F – C – G
F – C – G – Am – F
C – G
Bridge
F – C – G (×4)
Verse 3
C – G – Am
F – C
G – Am – F
C – G
Chorus
F – C – G
F – C – G – Am – F
C – G
Practice tip: The song has a relaxed, flowing feel. Practice the F to C transition, as it’s used frequently, and let the chords ring out.
Frequently Asked Questions
What chords do you need to play "New Slang"?
You need 4 beginner-friendly chords: Am, C, G and F.
Is "New Slang" easy to play on guitar?
It is rated beginner and uses only 4 chords in the key of C, making it a good choice for players at that level.
What key is "New Slang" in?
It is in the key of C.
Who wrote "New Slang"?
It was written by James Mercer, and released in 2001.