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Key
E
Difficulty
Beginner
Capo
None
Chords
E · A · B · G
Sundown Chords – Guitar
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Key
E
Difficulty
Beginner
Tuning
G-C-E-A
Chords
E · A · B · G
Sundown Chords – Ukulele
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Key
E
Difficulty
Beginner
Left Hand
Root notes
Chords
E · A · B · G
Sundown Chords – Piano
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Key
E
Difficulty
Beginner
Tuning
gDGBD (Open G)
Chords
E · A · B · G
Sundown Chords – Banjo
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Key
E
Difficulty
Beginner
Tuning
G-D-A-E
Chords
E · A · B · G
Sundown Chords – Mandolin
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Key
E
Difficulty
Beginner
Harp Key
C Diatonic
Chords
E · A · B · G
Sundown Chords – Harmonica
Gordon Lightfoot’s classic 1974 folk-rock hit about suspicion and desire. Beginner difficulty in the key of E.
Folk Rock Strum (4/4 Time)
↓↓↑↑↓↑
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Tip: Use a capo on the 2nd fret and play G, C, and D shapes to match the original recording’s key of A, or play these E-family chords open for the key of E.
Chords & Structure
Full Song
Verse 1
E – B
E – A – E
B – E – A – E (×2)
Chorus
A – E
B – E – A
A – E
B – E – A
Verse 2
E – B
E – A – E
B – E – A – E (×2)
Chorus
A – E
B – E – A
A – E
B – E – A
Bridge
E – B
E – A – E – B
E – A
B – E – A
Verse 3
E – B
E – A – E
B – E – A – E (×2)
Chorus
A – E
B – E – A
A – E
B – E – A
Outro
A – E
B – E – A
A – E
B – E – A
Practice tip: The song uses only three chords (E, A, B). Master the transition from E to B, as it’s the trickiest move. Strum steadily and let the lyrics carry the mood.
Frequently Asked Questions
What chords do you need to play "Sundown"?
You need 4 beginner-friendly chords: E, A, B and G.
Is "Sundown" easy to play on guitar?
It is rated beginner and uses only 4 chords in the key of E, making it a good choice for players at that level.
What key is "Sundown" in?
It is in the key of E.
Who wrote "Sundown"?
It was written by Gordon Lightfoot, and released in 1974.