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Key
D
Difficulty
Intermediate
Capo
None
Chords
D · A · Bm · G
With or Without You Chords – Guitar
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Key
D
Difficulty
Intermediate
Tuning
G-C-E-A
Chords
D · A · Bm · G
With or Without You Chords – Ukulele
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Key
D
Difficulty
Intermediate
Left Hand
Root notes
Chords
D · A · Bm · G
With or Without You Chords – Piano
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Key
D
Difficulty
Intermediate
Tuning
gDGBD (Open G)
Chords
D · A · Bm · G
With or Without You Chords – Banjo
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Key
D
Difficulty
Intermediate
Tuning
G-D-A-E
Chords
D · A · Bm · G
With or Without You Chords – Mandolin
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Key
D
Difficulty
Intermediate
Harp Key
C Diatonic
Chords
D · A · Bm · G
With or Without You Chords – Harmonica
U2’s arena anthem loops four chords throughout the entire song. The Bm barre chord is the only challenge.
Strumming Pattern (4/4 Time)
↓↓↑↑↓↑
123456
Tip: If Bm is too hard, capo on fret 2 and play C-G-Am-F shapes instead.
Chords & Structure
Full Song
Verse 1
D
A
Bm
G
D
A
Bm – G
Chorus
D – A
Bm – G
D – A – Bm – G
How to Play
Step-by-Step Guide
1
Learn the chords
This song uses 4 chords in the key of D: D A Bm G. 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.
Tip: Bm trips up most beginners — try Bm7 or a partial shape first, then move to the full barre once your changes are clean.
Frequently Asked Questions
What chords do you need to play "With or Without You"?
You need 4 intermediate-friendly chords: D, A, Bm and G.
Is "With or Without You" easy to play on guitar?
It is rated intermediate and uses only 4 chords in the key of D, making it a good choice for players at that level.
What key is "With or Without You" in?
It is in the key of D.
Who wrote "With or Without You"?
It was written by U2.