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Key
C
Difficulty
Beginner
Capo
None
Chords
C · Em · Am · G · F
Runaway Train Chords – Guitar
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Key
C
Difficulty
Beginner
Tuning
G-C-E-A
Chords
C · Em · Am · G · F
Runaway Train Chords – Ukulele
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Key
C
Difficulty
Beginner
Left Hand
Root notes
Chords
C · Em · Am · G · F
Runaway Train Chords – Piano
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Key
C
Difficulty
Beginner
Tuning
gDGBD (Open G)
Chords
C · Em · Am · G · F
Runaway Train Chords – Banjo
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Key
C
Difficulty
Beginner
Tuning
G-D-A-E
Chords
C · Em · Am · G · F
Runaway Train Chords – Mandolin
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Key
C
Difficulty
Beginner
Harp Key
C Diatonic
Chords
C · Em · Am · G · F
Runaway Train Chords – Harmonica
Soul Asylum’s 1992 hit song about loss and searching. Beginner difficulty in the key of C.
Driving Rock (4/4 Time)
↓↓↑↑↓↑
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Tip: Use a capo on the 2nd fret to match the original recording’s key of D.
Chords & Structure
Full Song
Verse 1
C – G
Am – F
C – G
Am – F
Chorus
C – G
Am – F
C – G
Am – F
Verse 2
C – G
Am – F
C – G
Am – F
Chorus
C – G
Am – F
C – G
Am – F
Bridge
F – G (×4)
Verse 3
C – G
Am – F
C – G
Am – F
Chorus
C – G
Am – F
C – G
Am – F
Outro
C – G
Am – F
C – G
Am – F
Practice tip: Master the C-G-Am-F progression before adding the lyrics, as it forms the core of the song.
Frequently Asked Questions
What chords do you need to play "Runaway Train"?
You need 5 beginner-friendly chords: C, Em, Am, G and F.
Is "Runaway Train" easy to play on guitar?
It is rated beginner and uses only 5 chords in the key of C, making it a good choice for players at that level.
What key is "Runaway Train" in?
It is in the key of C.
Who wrote "Runaway Train"?
It was written by Dave Pirner, and released in 1992.