Clarity — Quick Answer & Harmonic Definition

Clarity uses the chords F#m, D, A, E in the key of F#m. The progression follows a i–VI–III–VII pattern. This is a beginner-level song.

Electronic · 2012 · Beginner

Clarity

by Zedd
Key of F#m 120 BPM Beginner

Chord Sheet

Key of F#m · Progression: i–VI–III–VII

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

Practice Tips for Clarity

  • →Start at 60 BPM (50% tempo) until chord changes feel smooth.
  • →Loop just the F#m→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 Clarity by Zedd

Clarity (2012) is a beginner-level electronic song that uses 4 chords: F#m, D, A, E in the key of F#m. The chord progression is i–VI–III–VII.

Chord Breakdown

  • F#m — minor chord, darker emotional sound
  • D — major chord, bright and stable
  • A — major chord, bright and stable
  • E — major chord, bright and stable

About Clarity

"Clarity" by Zedd (released 2012) is one of the most recognizable electronic 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 F#m, D, A creates a harmonic loop that feels both complete and constantly forward-moving.

Learning Clarity as a Beginner

If you're learning to play Clarity, 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.

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Metronome
Practice at 120 BPM
Tuner
Tune your instrument
Piano
Play on virtual piano
Guitar
Play on fretboard

Knowledge Base & FAQs

Clarity by Zedd — FAQ

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

What chords are in Clarity by Zedd?

Clarity uses the chords F#m, D, A, E in the key of F#m.

The progression follows a i–VI–III–VII pattern. This is a beginner-level song.

What key is Clarity in?

Clarity by Zedd is in the key of F#m.

The primary chords are F#m, D, A.

What is the tempo of Clarity?

Clarity 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 Clarity use?

Clarity 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 F#m chord on guitar?

F#m is the main chord in Clarity.

See our chord library for the F#m chord diagram with exact fingering.

Can I play Clarity on piano?

Yes! Clarity sounds great on piano.

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

Is Clarity beginner-friendly?

Yes! Clarity is rated Beginner difficulty.

It uses 4 main chords (F#m, D, A), all easy open or basic chords. One of the best songs for new players to learn.

What is the chord progression in Clarity?

The main progression in Clarity is F#m – D – A – E (Roman numeral: i–VI–III–VII).

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

Can I transpose Clarity to a different key?

Yes! Clarity is in F#m.

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 Clarity?

Clarity by Zedd is a Electronic song from 2012.

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