Clocks — Quick Answer & Harmonic Definition

Clocks uses the chords Eb, Bb, Fm in the key of Eb. The progression follows a I–V–ii pattern. This is a intermediate-level song.

Pop · 2002 · Intermediate

Clocks

by Coldplay
Key of Eb 131 BPM Intermediate

Chord Sheet

Key of Eb · Progression: I–V–ii

Eb
chord 1
Bb
chord 2
Fm
chord 3
Chord Loop
Eb — Bb — Fm — ...
Roman Numeral Analysis
View the harmonic structure and functional analysis of this progression.
View Analysis →
Key
Eb
Tempo
131 BPM
Chords
3
Genre
Pop

Practice Tips for Clocks

  • →Start at 66 BPM (50% tempo) until chord changes feel smooth.
  • →Loop just the Eb→Bb transition repeatedly — this is often the hardest change.
  • →Use our Metronome set to 131 BPM for precise timing practice.
  • →Click any chord above to see its full piano keyboard and guitar fingering diagram.

How to Play Clocks by Coldplay

Clocks (2002) is a intermediate-level pop song that uses 3 chords: Eb, Bb, Fm in the key of Eb. The chord progression is I–V–ii.

Chord Breakdown

  • Eb — major chord, bright and stable
  • Bb — major chord, bright and stable
  • Fm — minor chord, darker emotional sound

About Clocks

"Clocks" by Coldplay (released 2002) is one of the most recognizable pop songs ever recorded. Its 3-chord structure demonstrates how a simple progression can create an emotionally powerful and memorable piece of music. The combination of Eb, Bb, Fm creates a harmonic loop that feels both complete and constantly forward-moving.

Learning Clocks as a Beginner

If you're learning to play Clocks, 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)

Viva La Vida
Coldplay
Ab – Eb – Fm – Db
Intermediate
Ab · 138 BPM
Hey Jude
The Beatles
F – C – Bb
Beginner
F · 73 BPM
Bohemian Rhapsody
Queen
Bb – Gm – Cm – F – Eb
Advanced
Bb · 72 BPM
A Thousand Years
Christina Perri
Bb – F – Gm – Eb
Beginner
Bb · 45 BPM
Smells Like Teen Spirit
Nirvana
F – Bb – Ab – Db
Beginner
F · 116 BPM
Yesterday
The Beatles
F – Em – A7 – Dm – Bb – C7
Intermediate
F · 96 BPM
Metronome
Practice at 131 BPM
Tuner
Tune your instrument
Piano
Play on virtual piano
Guitar
Play on fretboard

Knowledge Base & FAQs

Clocks by Coldplay — FAQ

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

What chords are in Clocks by Coldplay?

Clocks uses the chords Eb, Bb, Fm in the key of Eb.

The progression follows a I–V–ii pattern. This is a intermediate-level song.

What key is Clocks in?

Clocks by Coldplay is in the key of Eb.

The primary chords are Eb, Bb, Fm.

What is the tempo of Clocks?

Clocks is played at approximately 131 BPM.

This is a faster tempo — practice slowly first before bringing it to full speed. Use our free metronome to practice at exactly 131 BPM.

What strumming pattern does Clocks use?

Clocks 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 Eb chord on guitar?

Eb is the main chord in Clocks.

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

Can I play Clocks on piano?

Yes! Clocks sounds great on piano.

Play the chords Eb, Bb, Fm 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 Clocks beginner-friendly?

Clocks is rated Intermediate difficulty.

The chord changes and rhythm require some practice.

What is the chord progression in Clocks?

The main progression in Clocks is Eb – Bb – Fm (Roman numeral: I–V–ii).

This 3-chord pattern repeats throughout most of the song.

Can I transpose Clocks to a different key?

Yes! Clocks is in Eb.

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 Clocks?

Clocks by Coldplay is a Pop song from 2002.

Its 3-chord progression (Eb, Bb, Fm) translates naturally to different tempos and styles, making it a popular cover choice for musicians of all levels.