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Key
E
Difficulty
Beginner
Capo
None
Chords
Em · D · C · G · A
Rockin’ in the Free World Chords – Guitar
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Key
E
Difficulty
Beginner
Tuning
G-C-E-A
Chords
Em · D · C · G · A
Rockin’ in the Free World Chords – Ukulele
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Key
E
Difficulty
Beginner
Left Hand
Root notes
Chords
Em · D · C · G · A
Rockin’ in the Free World Chords – Piano
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Key
E
Difficulty
Beginner
Tuning
gDGBD (Open G)
Chords
Em · D · C · G · A
Rockin’ in the Free World Chords – Banjo
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Key
E
Difficulty
Beginner
Tuning
G-D-A-E
Chords
Em · D · C · G · A
Rockin’ in the Free World Chords – Mandolin
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Key
E
Difficulty
Beginner
Harp Key
C Diatonic
Chords
Em · D · C · G · A
Rockin’ in the Free World Chords – Harmonica
Neil Young’s powerful anthem contrasting societal issues with a defiant, rocking spirit. Beginner difficulty in the key of E.
Driving Rock (4/4 Time)
↓↓↑↑↓↑
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Tip: Use a pick and strum all six strings for a full, gritty sound.
Chords & Structure
Full Song
Verse 1
E
A
E (×2)
A
E
Chorus
A – E (×4)
Verse 2
E
A
E (×2)
A
E
Chorus
A – E (×4)
Bridge
E
A
E
A
E
A
E
A
E – A – E – A – E – A – E
A – E – A – E
A – E – A – E – A
Chorus
A – E (×4)
Outro
E – A (×4)
Practice tip: Master the two-chord switch between E and A before adding the lyrics; the entire song is built on this simple, powerful change.
Frequently Asked Questions
What chords do you need to play "Rockin’ in the Free World"?
You need 5 beginner-friendly chords: Em, D, C, G and A.
Is "Rockin’ in the Free World" easy to play on guitar?
It is rated beginner and uses only 5 chords in the key of E, making it a good choice for players at that level.
What key is "Rockin’ in the Free World" in?
It is in the key of E.
Who wrote "Rockin’ in the Free World"?
It was written by Neil Young, and released in 1989.