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Key
G
Difficulty
Beginner
Capo
None
Chords
G · C · D · Em
You Are Holy Chords – Guitar
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Key
G
Difficulty
Beginner
Tuning
G-C-E-A
Chords
G · C · D · Em
You Are Holy Chords – Ukulele
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Key
G
Difficulty
Beginner
Left Hand
Root notes
Chords
G · C · D · Em
You Are Holy Chords – Piano
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Key
G
Difficulty
Beginner
Tuning
gDGBD (Open G)
Chords
G · C · D · Em
You Are Holy Chords – Banjo
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Key
G
Difficulty
Beginner
Tuning
G-D-A-E
Chords
G · C · D · Em
You Are Holy Chords – Mandolin
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Key
G
Difficulty
Beginner
Harp Key
C Diatonic
Chords
G · C · D · Em
You Are Holy Chords – Harmonica
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Key
G
Difficulty
Beginner
Tuning
G-D-A-E
Chords
G · C · D · Em
You Are Holy Chords – Violin
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Key
G
Difficulty
Beginner
Range
Varies by singer
Chords
G · C · D · Em
You Are Holy Chords – Vocal
Michael W. Smith’s “Prince of Peace” declaration. A powerful worship anthem with two overlapping melodies that build to a triumphant climax.
Worship Strum (4/4 Time)
↓↓↑↑↓↑
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Tip: This song builds from a gentle verse to a powerful declaration. Start softly and let the dynamics grow naturally through each section.
How to play
Step-by-Step Guide
1
Four open chords
The song uses G, C, D, and Em. Standard worship guitar chords.
2
Verse — gentle
Play the verse softly with G-C-D-Em. Let the declaration build slowly.
3
Chorus — powerful
The chorus repeats “You are holy” with full strumming. This is where the congregation joins in full voice.
4
The dual melody section
The most unique part — two groups sing different melodies simultaneously over the same chord progression. Keep steady rhythm to anchor both parts.
Chords & Structure
Full Song
Verse
G – C – D (×3)
Em – C – D
Chorus — Part 1
G – C – D (×3)
Em – C – D
Chorus — Part 2 (simultaneous)
G – C – D (×3)
Em – C – D
Practice tip: If leading worship, practice conducting the two-part section. One group sings “I will follow” while the other sings “You are Lord of lords” simultaneously.
Frequently Asked Questions
What chords do you need to play "You Are Holy"?
You need 4 beginner-friendly chords: G, C, D and Em.
Is "You Are Holy" easy to play on guitar?
It is rated beginner and uses only 4 chords in the key of G, making it a good choice for players at that level.
What key is "You Are Holy" in?
It is in the key of G.
Who wrote "You Are Holy"?
It was written by Michael W. Smith, and released in 2001.