Hello — Quick Answer & Harmonic Definition

Hello uses the chords Fm, Ab, Eb, Db in the key of Fm. The progression follows a i–III–VII–VI pattern. This is a beginner-level song.

Pop · 2015 · Beginner

Hello

by Adele
Key of Fm 79 BPM Beginner

Chord Sheet

Key of Fm · Progression: i–III–VII–VI

Fm
chord 1
Ab
chord 2
Eb
chord 3
Db
chord 4
Chord Loop
Fm — Ab — Eb — Db — ...
Roman Numeral Analysis
View the harmonic structure and functional analysis of this progression.
View Analysis →
Key
Fm
Tempo
79 BPM
Chords
4
Genre
Pop

Practice Tips for Hello

  • →Start at 40 BPM (50% tempo) until chord changes feel smooth.
  • →Loop just the Fm→Ab transition repeatedly — this is often the hardest change.
  • →Use our Metronome set to 79 BPM for precise timing practice.
  • →Click any chord above to see its full piano keyboard and guitar fingering diagram.

How to Play Hello by Adele

Hello (2015) is a beginner-level pop song that uses 4 chords: Fm, Ab, Eb, Db in the key of Fm. The chord progression is i–III–VII–VI.

Chord Breakdown

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

About Hello

"Hello" by Adele (released 2015) is one of the most recognizable pop 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 Fm, Ab, Eb creates a harmonic loop that feels both complete and constantly forward-moving.

Learning Hello as a Beginner

If you're learning to play Hello, 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
Bohemian Rhapsody
Queen
Bb – Gm – Cm – F – Eb
Advanced
Bb · 72 BPM
A Thousand Years
Christina Perri
Bb – F – Gm – Eb
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Bb · 45 BPM
Smells Like Teen Spirit
Nirvana
F – Bb – Ab – Db
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F · 116 BPM
Clocks
Coldplay
Eb – Bb – Fm
Intermediate
Eb · 131 BPM
Fix You
Coldplay
Eb – Bb – Cm – Ab
Beginner
Eb · 71 BPM
Metronome
Practice at 79 BPM
Tuner
Tune your instrument
Piano
Play on virtual piano
Guitar
Play on fretboard

Knowledge Base & FAQs

Hello by Adele — FAQ

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

What chords are in Hello by Adele?

Hello uses the chords Fm, Ab, Eb, Db in the key of Fm.

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

What key is Hello in?

Hello by Adele is in the key of Fm.

The primary chords are Fm, Ab, Eb.

What is the tempo of Hello?

Hello is played at approximately 79 BPM.

This slow tempo is great for beginners to focus on chord transitions. Use our free metronome to practice at exactly 79 BPM.

What strumming pattern does Hello use?

Hello 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 Fm chord on guitar?

Fm is the main chord in Hello.

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

Can I play Hello on piano?

Yes! Hello sounds great on piano.

Play the chords Fm, Ab, Eb, Db 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 Hello beginner-friendly?

Yes! Hello is rated Beginner difficulty.

It uses 4 main chords (Fm, Ab, Eb), all easy open or basic chords. One of the best songs for new players to learn.

What is the chord progression in Hello?

The main progression in Hello is Fm – Ab – Eb – Db (Roman numeral: i–III–VII–VI).

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

Can I transpose Hello to a different key?

Yes! Hello is in Fm.

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 Hello?

Hello by Adele is a Pop song from 2015.

Its 4-chord progression (Fm, Ab, Eb, Db) translates naturally to different tempos and styles, making it a popular cover choice for musicians of all levels.