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Key
Em
Difficulty
Beginner
Capo
None
Chords
Em · G · D · C
Numb Chords – Guitar
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Key
Em
Difficulty
Beginner
Tuning
G-C-E-A
Chords
Em · G · D · C
Numb Chords – Ukulele
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Key
Em
Difficulty
Beginner
Left Hand
Root notes
Chords
Em · G · D · C
Numb Chords – Piano
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Key
Em
Difficulty
Beginner
Tuning
gDGBD (Open G)
Chords
Em · G · D · C
Numb Chords – Banjo
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Key
Em
Difficulty
Beginner
Tuning
G-D-A-E
Chords
Em · G · D · C
Numb Chords – Mandolin
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Key
Em
Difficulty
Beginner
Harp Key
C Diatonic
Chords
Em · G · D · C
Numb Chords – Harmonica
Linkin Park’s biggest hit is built on four simple open chords. The emotional weight comes from Chester’s vocal, not complex harmony.
Strumming Pattern (4/4 Time)
↓↓↑↓↑
12345
Tip: Play with a clean tone for the verse, switch to distortion for the chorus. All four chords are open — no barre chords.
Chords & Structure
Full Song
Verse 1
Em
G
D
C
Chorus
Em – G
D – C
Em – G
D – C
How to Play
Step-by-Step Guide
1
Learn the chords
This song uses 4 chords in the key of Em: Em G D C. 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: Loop the two hardest chord changes slowly before adding any strumming — clean, in-time changes matter more than speed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What chords do you need to play "Numb"?
You need 4 beginner-friendly chords: Em, G, D and C.
Is "Numb" easy to play on guitar?
It is rated beginner and uses only 4 chords in the key of Em, making it a good choice for players at that level.
What key is "Numb" in?
It is in the key of Em.
Who wrote "Numb"?
It was written by Linkin Park.