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Key
A
Difficulty
Beginner
Capo
None
Chords
C · G · Am
Simple Man Chords – Guitar
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Key
A
Difficulty
Beginner
Tuning
G-C-E-A
Chords
C · G · Am
Simple Man Chords – Ukulele
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Key
A
Difficulty
Beginner
Left Hand
Root notes
Chords
C · G · Am
Simple Man Chords – Piano
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Key
A
Difficulty
Beginner
Tuning
gDGBD (Open G)
Chords
C · G · Am
Simple Man Chords – Banjo
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Key
A
Difficulty
Beginner
Tuning
G-D-A-E
Chords
C · G · Am
Simple Man Chords – Mandolin
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Key
A
Difficulty
Beginner
Harp Key
C Diatonic
Chords
C · G · Am
Simple Man Chords – Harmonica
A timeless southern rock ballad with just three chords. One of the easiest classic rock songs to learn.
Chords used: C, G, Am · Key: A · Difficulty: Beginner · More 3-chord songs →
Southern Rock Ballad (4/4 Time)
↓↓↑↑↓↑
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Tip: The iconic intro is an arpeggio pattern: pick through C-G-Am slowly. Each chord gets two beats. Let the notes ring into each other.
Chords & Structure
Full Song
Verse 1
C – G
Am
C – G – Am (×2)
Chorus
C – G – Am (×4)
How to Play
Step-by-Step Guide
1
Learn the chords
This song uses 3 chords in the key of A: C G Am. 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.
Frequently Asked Questions
What chords do you need to play "Simple Man"?
You need 3 beginner-friendly chords: C, G and Am.
Is "Simple Man" easy to play on guitar?
It is rated beginner and uses only 3 chords in the key of A, making it a good choice for players at that level.
What key is "Simple Man" in?
It is in the key of A.
Who wrote "Simple Man"?
It was written by Ronnie Van Zant, Gary Rossington, and released in 1973.