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Key
A
Difficulty
Intermediate
Capo
None
Chords
Am · Dm · G · C · Em
Smooth Operator Chords – Guitar
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Key
A
Difficulty
Intermediate
Tuning
G-C-E-A
Chords
Am · Dm · G · C · Em
Smooth Operator Chords – Ukulele
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Key
A
Difficulty
Intermediate
Left Hand
Root notes
Chords
Am · Dm · G · C · Em
Smooth Operator Chords – Piano
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Key
A
Difficulty
Intermediate
Tuning
gDGBD (Open G)
Chords
Am · Dm · G · C · Em
Smooth Operator Chords – Banjo
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Key
A
Difficulty
Intermediate
Tuning
G-D-A-E
Chords
Am · Dm · G · C · Em
Smooth Operator Chords – Mandolin
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Key
A
Difficulty
Intermediate
Harp Key
C Diatonic
Chords
Am · Dm · G · C · Em
Smooth Operator Chords – Harmonica
Sade’s smooth jazz-pop classic about a charming but elusive lover. Intermediate difficulty in the key of A.
Smooth Groove (4/4 Time)
↓↑↓↑↑
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Tip: Use a light, percussive strum and let the chords ring out to capture the cool, laid-back feel.
Chords & Structure
Full Song
Verse 1
D – A – Bm
F#m – E – D
A – Bm
F#m – E – D
Chorus
A – Bm – F#m – E
A – Bm
F#m – E
Verse 2
D – A – Bm – F#m
E – D – A
Chorus
A – Bm – F#m – E
A – Bm
F#m – E
Bridge
E – D (×2)
E – D – E
Verse 3
D – A – Bm – F#m
E – D
A – Bm – F#m – E – D
Chorus
A – Bm – F#m – E
A – Bm
F#m – E
Outro
E – D (×4)
Practice tip: Work on the Bm and F#m barre chords separately to build strength and speed before trying to play the whole song fluidly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What chords do you need to play "Smooth Operator"?
You need 5 intermediate-friendly chords: Am, Dm, G, C and Em.
Is "Smooth Operator" easy to play on guitar?
It is rated intermediate and uses only 5 chords in the key of A, making it a good choice for players at that level.
What key is "Smooth Operator" in?
It is in the key of A.
Who wrote "Smooth Operator"?
It was written by Sade Adu, Ray St. John, and released in 1984.