Redemption Song Piano Chords & Patterns

Learn Redemption Song in 5 steps

The chords first, then one hand at a time. Each step plays in the player above.

1
Chords: C – D – G – C – D – G
Redemption Song sits in G major: G is home, where the song ends. It goes round 6 chords: C is C, E and G; D is D, F# and A; G is G, B and D. Play each one as a block with your right hand until the changes feel easy.
CIVDVGICIVDVGI
- CC · E · G
- DD · F# · A
- GG · B · D
141 songs go round the same chords
2
Left hand: Walking roots
One low note on every beat, steady as walking feet. Musicians call it root bass · quarters (root bass rhythm), an easy pattern heard in thousands of songs of the library.
Walking rootsRoot bass rhythm · PopLeft handEasy
3
Right hand: Pop stabs
Chord stabs in the 3-3-2 pop rhythm. It moves with the chords, so it fits every bar of the loop.
Pop stabsSyncopated chords · PopRight handEasy
4
Both hands at 100 BPM
Put the two hands together over the loop. Start at half speed with the player's speed control, and bring it up once every change is easy.
5
Ending: C – D – G
The last chords are IV – V – I, then one chord rolled from the bottom up, left to ring.
CDG

What chords are in Redemption Song?

The loop is C – D – G – C – D – G (IV – V – I – IV – V – I) in G major, and the song ends on C – D – G.

What key is Redemption Song in?

G major, at about 100 beats a minute in 4/4.

What does the left hand play in Redemption Song?

Walking roots: root bass · quarters, an easy pattern. It follows the chords, so the same shape works for every bar.

Is Redemption Song easy to play on piano?

Yes. Both hands play easy patterns over 6 chords. Learn the chords first, then add one hand at a time.

Can I hear the real melody of Redemption Song?

Yes: "The part you know" plays the catchy part of the song from a score, with both hands.