Ace of Spades — Quick Answer & Harmonic Definition

Ace of Spades uses the chords E, D, A, G in the key of E. The progression follows a I–VII–IV–III pattern. This is a intermediate-level song.

Metal · 1980 · Intermediate

Ace of Spades

by Motörhead
Key of E 120 BPM Intermediate

Chord Sheet

Key of E · Progression: I–VII–IV–III

E
chord 1
D
chord 2
A
chord 3
G
chord 4
Chord Loop
E — D — A — G — ...
Roman Numeral Analysis
View the harmonic structure and functional analysis of this progression.
View Analysis →
Key
E
Tempo
120 BPM
Chords
4
Genre
Metal

Practice Tips for Ace of Spades

  • →Start at 60 BPM (50% tempo) until chord changes feel smooth.
  • →Loop just the E→D transition repeatedly — this is often the hardest change.
  • →Use our Metronome set to 120 BPM for precise timing practice.
  • →Click any chord above to see its full piano keyboard and guitar fingering diagram.

How to Play Ace of Spades by Motörhead

Ace of Spades (1980) is a intermediate-level metal song that uses 4 chords: E, D, A, G in the key of E. The chord progression is I–VII–IV–III.

Chord Breakdown

  • E — major chord, bright and stable
  • D — major chord, bright and stable
  • A — major chord, bright and stable
  • G — major chord, bright and stable

About Ace of Spades

"Ace of Spades" by Motörhead (released 1980) is one of the most recognizable metal songs ever recorded. Its 4-chord structure demonstrates how a simple progression can create an emotionally powerful and memorable piece of music. The combination of E, D, A creates a harmonic loop that feels both complete and constantly forward-moving.

Learning Ace of Spades as a Beginner

If you're learning to play Ace of Spades, start by getting comfortable with each chord individually before trying to switch between them. The goal is to make each chord change automatic — your fingers should know where to go without you having to think about it. Practice the chord loop slowly with a metronome, and you'll be playing the full song within a few weeks.

Similar Songs (Same Key or Chords)

Let It Be
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Wonderwall
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Knockin' on Heaven's Door
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Stand By Me
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Perfect
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Hallelujah
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C – Am – F – G – E7
Intermediate
C · 68 BPM
Metronome
Practice at 120 BPM
Tuner
Tune your instrument
Piano
Play on virtual piano
Guitar
Play on fretboard

Knowledge Base & FAQs

Ace of Spades by Motörhead — FAQ

Everything you need to know about our browser-based Web Audio engine, instruments, and music theory workspace.

What chords are in Ace of Spades by Motörhead?

Ace of Spades uses the chords E, D, A, G in the key of E.

The progression follows a I–VII–IV–III pattern. This is a intermediate-level song.

What key is Ace of Spades in?

Ace of Spades by Motörhead is in the key of E.

The primary chords are E, D, A.

What is the tempo of Ace of Spades?

Ace of Spades is played at approximately 120 BPM.

This is a faster tempo — practice slowly first before bringing it to full speed. Use our free metronome to practice at exactly 120 BPM.

What strumming pattern does Ace of Spades use?

Ace of Spades is typically in 4/4 time.

A common strumming pattern is down-down-up-up-down-up (DDUUDU) or simplified all-down for beginners. Focus on getting chord changes smooth before adding strumming complexity.

How do I play E chord on guitar?

E is the main chord in Ace of Spades.

See our chord library for the E chord diagram with exact fingering.

Can I play Ace of Spades on piano?

Yes! Ace of Spades sounds great on piano.

Play the chords E, D, A, G in root position or inversions. Left hand plays bass notes (root of each chord), right hand plays chord voicings. This is a intermediate-level arrangement.

Is Ace of Spades beginner-friendly?

Ace of Spades is rated Intermediate difficulty.

The chord changes and rhythm require some practice.

What is the chord progression in Ace of Spades?

The main progression in Ace of Spades is E – D – A – G (Roman numeral: I–VII–IV–III).

This 4-chord pattern repeats throughout most of the song.

Can I transpose Ace of Spades to a different key?

Yes! Ace of Spades is in E.

To make it easier, try transposing to G or D using a capo. A capo changes your effective key while keeping the same chord shapes. Use our Transpose Tool to convert all chord names automatically.

What genre is Ace of Spades?

Ace of Spades by Motörhead is a Metal song from 1980.

Its 4-chord progression (E, D, A, G) translates naturally to different tempos and styles, making it a popular cover choice for musicians of all levels.