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Key
D
Difficulty
Intermediate
Capo
None
Chords
Dm · C · Bb · A · F · G
Sultans of Swing Chords – Guitar
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Key
D
Difficulty
Intermediate
Tuning
G-C-E-A
Chords
Dm · C · Bb · A · F · G
Sultans of Swing Chords – Ukulele
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Key
D
Difficulty
Intermediate
Left Hand
Root notes
Chords
Dm · C · Bb · A · F · G
Sultans of Swing Chords – Piano
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Key
D
Difficulty
Intermediate
Tuning
gDGBD (Open G)
Chords
Dm · C · Bb · A · F · G
Sultans of Swing Chords – Banjo
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Key
D
Difficulty
Intermediate
Tuning
G-D-A-E
Chords
Dm · C · Bb · A · F · G
Sultans of Swing Chords – Mandolin
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Key
D
Difficulty
Intermediate
Harp Key
C Diatonic
Chords
Dm · C · Bb · A · F · G
Sultans of Swing Chords – Harmonica
Dire Straits’ iconic narrative rock song about a jazz band playing in a nearly empty bar. Intermediate difficulty in the key of D.
Rock Strum (4/4 Time)
↓↓↑↑↓↑
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Tip: Use a clean, slightly percussive electric guitar tone and focus on the syncopated rhythm.
Chords & Structure
Full Song
Intro / Verse 1
D
G – D
A – D
G – D
A
Verse 2
D
G – D
A – D
G – D
A
Chorus
D
G
D
A
D
Verse 3
D
G – D
A
D
G – D
A
Chorus
D
G
D
A
D
Bridge
G
D
G
A
Verse 4
D
G – D
A
D
G – D
A – D
G
D – A
D
G
D – A
Outro
D
G
D
A
D
G
D
A
Practice tip: Master the D to G and D to A transitions cleanly, and practice the spoken-word vocal rhythm against the steady strum pattern.
Frequently Asked Questions
What chords do you need to play "Sultans of Swing"?
You need 6 intermediate-friendly chords: Dm, C, Bb, A, F and G.
Is "Sultans of Swing" easy to play on guitar?
It is rated intermediate and uses only 6 chords in the key of D, making it a good choice for players at that level.
What key is "Sultans of Swing" in?
It is in the key of D.
Who wrote "Sultans of Swing"?
It was written by Mark Knopfler, and released in 1978.