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Key
C
Difficulty
Intermediate
Capo
None
Chords
C · G · F · Am · D · E
Piano Man Chords – Guitar
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Key
C
Difficulty
Intermediate
Tuning
G-C-E-A
Chords
C · G · F · Am · D · E
Piano Man Chords – Ukulele
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Key
C
Difficulty
Intermediate
Left Hand
Root notes
Chords
C · G · F · Am · D · E
Piano Man Chords – Piano
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Key
C
Difficulty
Intermediate
Tuning
gDGBD (Open G)
Chords
C · G · F · Am · D · E
Piano Man Chords – Banjo
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Key
C
Difficulty
Intermediate
Tuning
G-D-A-E
Chords
C · G · F · Am · D · E
Piano Man Chords – Mandolin
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Key
C
Difficulty
Intermediate
Harp Key
C Diatonic
Chords
C · G · F · Am · D · E
Piano Man Chords – Harmonica
Billy Joel’s signature song. A masterful story told in waltz time that works beautifully on guitar.
Waltz (3/4 Time)
↓↑↓↑↓↑
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Tip: This is in 3/4 time (waltz). Count 1-2-3, 1-2-3. Strum down on beat 1, lighter on beats 2 and 3. The harmonica intro can be played as a C-G-F pattern.
Chords & Structure
Full Song
Verse 1
C – G – F – C
F – C – D – G
C – G – F – C
F – G – C
Chorus
Am – D – Am – D
Am – D – G – G
C – G – F – C
F – G – C
How to Play
Step-by-Step Guide
1
Learn the chords
This song uses 6 chords in the key of C: C G F Am D E. 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: The F barre chord is the tricky one — use Fmaj7 (skip the low E and A strings) while you build finger strength.
Frequently Asked Questions
What chords do you need to play "Piano Man"?
You need 6 intermediate-friendly chords: C, G, F, Am, D and E.
Is "Piano Man" easy to play on guitar?
It is rated intermediate and uses only 6 chords in the key of C, making it a good choice for players at that level.
What key is "Piano Man" in?
It is in the key of C.
Who wrote "Piano Man"?
It was written by Billy Joel, and released in 1973.