Pop,Folk

Somewhere Over the Rainbow Chords

Israel Kamakawiwo'ole Beginner Key of C 4 Chords 3 min read Updated Jul 2026

Ctap to play

Emtap to play

Amtap to play

Ftap to play

Key

C

Difficulty

Beginner

Capo

None

Chords

C · Em · Am · F

Somewhere Over the Rainbow Chords – Guitar

Israel Kamakawiwo’ole’s ukulele version turned this classic into a tropical dream. Four chords and a gentle fingerpicking style create pure musical bliss.

Strumming Pattern (4/4 Time)

↓↑↓↑

1234

Tip: On ukulele, the C chord is just one finger (3rd fret of the A string). This song is the perfect introduction to ukulele playing.

How to play

Step-by-Step Guide

1

Learn the four chords

You need C, Em, Am, and F. These are among the easiest ukulele chords.

2

Get the island feel

The strumming should be gentle and swaying. Think of Hawaiian breeze and ocean waves. Keep your touch light.

3

Learn the intro

The intro arpeggiates the C chord with a signature melodic run. It sets the dreamy atmosphere for the whole song.

4

Sing with aloha

IZ sang this with pure love in his voice. Channel that warmth and let every note carry joy.

Lyrics & Chords

Full Song — Guitar Version

Verse 1

C Em

Somewhere over the rainbow

Am F

Way up high

C

And the dreams that you dream of

G Am F

Once in a lullaby

Verse 2

C Em

Somewhere over the rainbow

Am F

Bluebirds fly

C

And the dreams that you dream of,

G Am F

Dreams really do come true

Chorus

C

Someday I’ll wish upon a star

G Am F

And wake up where the clouds are far behind me

C

Where trouble melts like lemon drops

G

High above the chimney top,

Am F

That’s where you’ll find me

Practice tip: If you are new to ukulele, this is the perfect first song. The chords are simple, the tempo is forgiving, and it sounds beautiful even when played imperfectly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What chords do you need to play "Somewhere Over the Rainbow"?

You need 4 beginner-friendly chords: C, Em, Am and F.

Is "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" easy to play on guitar?

It is rated beginner and uses only 4 chords in the key of C, making it a good choice for players at that level.

What key is "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" in?

It is in the key of C.

Who wrote "Somewhere Over the Rainbow"?

It was written by Israel Kamakawiwo'ole.

Ctap to play

Emtap to play

Amtap to play

Ftap to play

Key

C

Difficulty

Beginner

Tuning

G-C-E-A

Chords

C · Em · Am · F

Somewhere Over the Rainbow Chords – Ukulele

Israel Kamakawiwo’ole’s ukulele version turned this classic into a tropical dream. Four chords and a gentle fingerpicking style create pure musical bliss.

Strumming Pattern (4/4 Time)

↓↑↓↑

1234

Tip: On ukulele, the C chord is just one finger (3rd fret of the A string). This song is the perfect introduction to ukulele playing.

How to play

Step-by-Step Guide

1

Learn the four chords

You need C, Em, Am, and F. These are among the easiest ukulele chords.

2

Get the island feel

The strumming should be gentle and swaying. Think of Hawaiian breeze and ocean waves. Keep your touch light.

3

Learn the intro

The intro arpeggiates the C chord with a signature melodic run. It sets the dreamy atmosphere for the whole song.

4

Sing with aloha

IZ sang this with pure love in his voice. Channel that warmth and let every note carry joy.

Lyrics & Chords

Full Song — Ukulele Version

Verse 1

C Em

Somewhere over the rainbow

Am F

Way up high

C

And the dreams that you dream of

G Am F

Once in a lullaby

Verse 2

C Em

Somewhere over the rainbow

Am F

Bluebirds fly

C

And the dreams that you dream of,

G Am F

Dreams really do come true

Chorus

C

Someday I’ll wish upon a star

G Am F

And wake up where the clouds are far behind me

C

Where trouble melts like lemon drops

G

High above the chimney top,

Am F

That’s where you’ll find me

Practice tip: If you are new to ukulele, this is the perfect first song. The chords are simple, the tempo is forgiving, and it sounds beautiful even when played imperfectly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What chords do you need to play "Somewhere Over the Rainbow"?

You need 4 beginner-friendly chords: C, Em, Am and F.

Is "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" easy to play on guitar?

It is rated beginner and uses only 4 chords in the key of C, making it a good choice for players at that level.

What key is "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" in?

It is in the key of C.

Who wrote "Somewhere Over the Rainbow"?

It was written by Israel Kamakawiwo'ole.

Ctap to play

Emtap to play

Amtap to play

Ftap to play

Key

C

Difficulty

Beginner

Left Hand

Root notes

Chords

C · Em · Am · F

Somewhere Over the Rainbow Chords – Piano

Israel Kamakawiwo’ole’s ukulele version turned this classic into a tropical dream. Four chords and a gentle fingerpicking style create pure musical bliss.

Strumming Pattern (4/4 Time)

↓↑↓↑

1234

Tip: On ukulele, the C chord is just one finger (3rd fret of the A string). This song is the perfect introduction to ukulele playing.

How to play

Step-by-Step Guide

1

Learn the four chords

You need C, Em, Am, and F. These are among the easiest ukulele chords.

2

Get the island feel

The strumming should be gentle and swaying. Think of Hawaiian breeze and ocean waves. Keep your touch light.

3

Learn the intro

The intro arpeggiates the C chord with a signature melodic run. It sets the dreamy atmosphere for the whole song.

4

Sing with aloha

IZ sang this with pure love in his voice. Channel that warmth and let every note carry joy.

Lyrics & Chords

Full Song — Piano Version

Verse 1

C Em

Somewhere over the rainbow

Am F

Way up high

C

And the dreams that you dream of

G Am F

Once in a lullaby

Verse 2

C Em

Somewhere over the rainbow

Am F

Bluebirds fly

C

And the dreams that you dream of,

G Am F

Dreams really do come true

Chorus

C

Someday I’ll wish upon a star

G Am F

And wake up where the clouds are far behind me

C

Where trouble melts like lemon drops

G

High above the chimney top,

Am F

That’s where you’ll find me

Practice tip: If you are new to ukulele, this is the perfect first song. The chords are simple, the tempo is forgiving, and it sounds beautiful even when played imperfectly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What chords do you need to play "Somewhere Over the Rainbow"?

You need 4 beginner-friendly chords: C, Em, Am and F.

Is "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" easy to play on guitar?

It is rated beginner and uses only 4 chords in the key of C, making it a good choice for players at that level.

What key is "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" in?

It is in the key of C.

Who wrote "Somewhere Over the Rainbow"?

It was written by Israel Kamakawiwo'ole.

Ctap to play

Emtap to play

Amtap to play

Ftap to play

Key

C

Difficulty

Beginner

Tuning

gDGBD (Open G)

Chords

C · Em · Am · F

Somewhere Over the Rainbow Chords – Banjo

Israel Kamakawiwo’ole’s ukulele version turned this classic into a tropical dream. Four chords and a gentle fingerpicking style create pure musical bliss.

Strumming Pattern (4/4 Time)

↓↑↓↑

1234

Tip: On ukulele, the C chord is just one finger (3rd fret of the A string). This song is the perfect introduction to ukulele playing.

How to play

Step-by-Step Guide

1

Learn the four chords

You need C, Em, Am, and F. These are among the easiest ukulele chords.

2

Get the island feel

The strumming should be gentle and swaying. Think of Hawaiian breeze and ocean waves. Keep your touch light.

3

Learn the intro

The intro arpeggiates the C chord with a signature melodic run. It sets the dreamy atmosphere for the whole song.

4

Sing with aloha

IZ sang this with pure love in his voice. Channel that warmth and let every note carry joy.

Lyrics & Chords

Full Song — Banjo Version

Verse 1

C Em

Somewhere over the rainbow

Am F

Way up high

C

And the dreams that you dream of

G Am F

Once in a lullaby

Verse 2

C Em

Somewhere over the rainbow

Am F

Bluebirds fly

C

And the dreams that you dream of,

G Am F

Dreams really do come true

Chorus

C

Someday I’ll wish upon a star

G Am F

And wake up where the clouds are far behind me

C

Where trouble melts like lemon drops

G

High above the chimney top,

Am F

That’s where you’ll find me

Practice tip: If you are new to ukulele, this is the perfect first song. The chords are simple, the tempo is forgiving, and it sounds beautiful even when played imperfectly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What chords do you need to play "Somewhere Over the Rainbow"?

You need 4 beginner-friendly chords: C, Em, Am and F.

Is "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" easy to play on guitar?

It is rated beginner and uses only 4 chords in the key of C, making it a good choice for players at that level.

What key is "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" in?

It is in the key of C.

Who wrote "Somewhere Over the Rainbow"?

It was written by Israel Kamakawiwo'ole.

Ctap to play

Emtap to play

Amtap to play

Ftap to play

Key

C

Difficulty

Beginner

Tuning

G-D-A-E

Chords

C · Em · Am · F

Somewhere Over the Rainbow Chords – Mandolin

Israel Kamakawiwo’ole’s ukulele version turned this classic into a tropical dream. Four chords and a gentle fingerpicking style create pure musical bliss.

Strumming Pattern (4/4 Time)

↓↑↓↑

1234

Tip: On ukulele, the C chord is just one finger (3rd fret of the A string). This song is the perfect introduction to ukulele playing.

How to play

Step-by-Step Guide

1

Learn the four chords

You need C, Em, Am, and F. These are among the easiest ukulele chords.

2

Get the island feel

The strumming should be gentle and swaying. Think of Hawaiian breeze and ocean waves. Keep your touch light.

3

Learn the intro

The intro arpeggiates the C chord with a signature melodic run. It sets the dreamy atmosphere for the whole song.

4

Sing with aloha

IZ sang this with pure love in his voice. Channel that warmth and let every note carry joy.

Lyrics & Chords

Full Song — Mandolin Version

Verse 1

C Em

Somewhere over the rainbow

Am F

Way up high

C

And the dreams that you dream of

G Am F

Once in a lullaby

Verse 2

C Em

Somewhere over the rainbow

Am F

Bluebirds fly

C

And the dreams that you dream of,

G Am F

Dreams really do come true

Chorus

C

Someday I’ll wish upon a star

G Am F

And wake up where the clouds are far behind me

C

Where trouble melts like lemon drops

G

High above the chimney top,

Am F

That’s where you’ll find me

Practice tip: If you are new to ukulele, this is the perfect first song. The chords are simple, the tempo is forgiving, and it sounds beautiful even when played imperfectly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What chords do you need to play "Somewhere Over the Rainbow"?

You need 4 beginner-friendly chords: C, Em, Am and F.

Is "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" easy to play on guitar?

It is rated beginner and uses only 4 chords in the key of C, making it a good choice for players at that level.

What key is "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" in?

It is in the key of C.

Who wrote "Somewhere Over the Rainbow"?

It was written by Israel Kamakawiwo'ole.

Ctap to play

Emtap to play

Amtap to play

Ftap to play

Key

C

Difficulty

Beginner

Harp Key

C Diatonic

Chords

C · Em · Am · F

Somewhere Over the Rainbow Chords – Harmonica

Israel Kamakawiwo’ole’s ukulele version turned this classic into a tropical dream. Four chords and a gentle fingerpicking style create pure musical bliss.

Strumming Pattern (4/4 Time)

↓↑↓↑

1234

Tip: On ukulele, the C chord is just one finger (3rd fret of the A string). This song is the perfect introduction to ukulele playing.

How to play

Step-by-Step Guide

1

Learn the four chords

You need C, Em, Am, and F. These are among the easiest ukulele chords.

2

Get the island feel

The strumming should be gentle and swaying. Think of Hawaiian breeze and ocean waves. Keep your touch light.

3

Learn the intro

The intro arpeggiates the C chord with a signature melodic run. It sets the dreamy atmosphere for the whole song.

4

Sing with aloha

IZ sang this with pure love in his voice. Channel that warmth and let every note carry joy.

Lyrics & Chords

Full Song — Harmonica Version

Verse 1

C Em

Somewhere over the rainbow

Am F

Way up high

C

And the dreams that you dream of

G Am F

Once in a lullaby

Verse 2

C Em

Somewhere over the rainbow

Am F

Bluebirds fly

C

And the dreams that you dream of,

G Am F

Dreams really do come true

Chorus

C

Someday I’ll wish upon a star

G Am F

And wake up where the clouds are far behind me

C

Where trouble melts like lemon drops

G

High above the chimney top,

Am F

That’s where you’ll find me

Practice tip: If you are new to ukulele, this is the perfect first song. The chords are simple, the tempo is forgiving, and it sounds beautiful even when played imperfectly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What chords do you need to play "Somewhere Over the Rainbow"?

You need 4 beginner-friendly chords: C, Em, Am and F.

Is "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" easy to play on guitar?

It is rated beginner and uses only 4 chords in the key of C, making it a good choice for players at that level.

What key is "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" in?

It is in the key of C.

Who wrote "Somewhere Over the Rainbow"?

It was written by Israel Kamakawiwo'ole.

Ctap to play

Emtap to play

Amtap to play

Ftap to play

Key

C

Difficulty

Beginner

Tuning

G-D-A-E

Chords

C · Em · Am · F

Somewhere Over the Rainbow Chords – Violin

Israel Kamakawiwo’ole’s ukulele version turned this classic into a tropical dream. Four chords and a gentle fingerpicking style create pure musical bliss.

Strumming Pattern (4/4 Time)

↓↑↓↑

1234

Tip: On ukulele, the C chord is just one finger (3rd fret of the A string). This song is the perfect introduction to ukulele playing.

How to play

Step-by-Step Guide

1

Learn the four chords

You need C, Em, Am, and F. These are among the easiest ukulele chords.

2

Get the island feel

The strumming should be gentle and swaying. Think of Hawaiian breeze and ocean waves. Keep your touch light.

3

Learn the intro

The intro arpeggiates the C chord with a signature melodic run. It sets the dreamy atmosphere for the whole song.

4

Sing with aloha

IZ sang this with pure love in his voice. Channel that warmth and let every note carry joy.

Lyrics & Chords

Full Song — Violin Version

Verse 1

C Em

Somewhere over the rainbow

Am F

Way up high

C

And the dreams that you dream of

G Am F

Once in a lullaby

Verse 2

C Em

Somewhere over the rainbow

Am F

Bluebirds fly

C

And the dreams that you dream of,

G Am F

Dreams really do come true

Chorus

C

Someday I’ll wish upon a star

G Am F

And wake up where the clouds are far behind me

C

Where trouble melts like lemon drops

G

High above the chimney top,

Am F

That’s where you’ll find me

Practice tip: If you are new to ukulele, this is the perfect first song. The chords are simple, the tempo is forgiving, and it sounds beautiful even when played imperfectly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What chords do you need to play "Somewhere Over the Rainbow"?

You need 4 beginner-friendly chords: C, Em, Am and F.

Is "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" easy to play on guitar?

It is rated beginner and uses only 4 chords in the key of C, making it a good choice for players at that level.

What key is "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" in?

It is in the key of C.

Who wrote "Somewhere Over the Rainbow"?

It was written by Israel Kamakawiwo'ole.

Ctap to play

Emtap to play

Amtap to play

Ftap to play

Key

C

Difficulty

Beginner

Range

Varies by singer

Chords

C · Em · Am · F

Somewhere Over the Rainbow Chords – Vocal

Israel Kamakawiwo’ole’s ukulele version turned this classic into a tropical dream. Four chords and a gentle fingerpicking style create pure musical bliss.

Strumming Pattern (4/4 Time)

↓↑↓↑

1234

Tip: On ukulele, the C chord is just one finger (3rd fret of the A string). This song is the perfect introduction to ukulele playing.

How to play

Step-by-Step Guide

1

Learn the four chords

You need C, Em, Am, and F. These are among the easiest ukulele chords.

2

Get the island feel

The strumming should be gentle and swaying. Think of Hawaiian breeze and ocean waves. Keep your touch light.

3

Learn the intro

The intro arpeggiates the C chord with a signature melodic run. It sets the dreamy atmosphere for the whole song.

4

Sing with aloha

IZ sang this with pure love in his voice. Channel that warmth and let every note carry joy.

Lyrics & Chords

Full Song — Vocal Version

Verse 1

C Em

Somewhere over the rainbow

Am F

Way up high

C

And the dreams that you dream of

G Am F

Once in a lullaby

Verse 2

C Em

Somewhere over the rainbow

Am F

Bluebirds fly

C

And the dreams that you dream of,

G Am F

Dreams really do come true

Chorus

C

Someday I’ll wish upon a star

G Am F

And wake up where the clouds are far behind me

C

Where trouble melts like lemon drops

G

High above the chimney top,

Am F

That’s where you’ll find me

Practice tip: If you are new to ukulele, this is the perfect first song. The chords are simple, the tempo is forgiving, and it sounds beautiful even when played imperfectly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What chords do you need to play "Somewhere Over the Rainbow"?

You need 4 beginner-friendly chords: C, Em, Am and F.

Is "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" easy to play on guitar?

It is rated beginner and uses only 4 chords in the key of C, making it a good choice for players at that level.

What key is "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" in?

It is in the key of C.

Who wrote "Somewhere Over the Rainbow"?

It was written by Israel Kamakawiwo'ole.