Locked Out of Heaven — Quick Answer & Harmonic Definition

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

Pop · 2012 · Beginner

Locked Out of Heaven

by Bruno Mars
Key of Fm 120 BPM Beginner

Chord Sheet

Key of Fm · Progression: i–III–VI–VII

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

Practice Tips for Locked Out of Heaven

  • →Start at 60 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 120 BPM for precise timing practice.
  • →Click any chord above to see its full piano keyboard and guitar fingering diagram.

How to Play Locked Out of Heaven by Bruno Mars

Locked Out of Heaven (2012) is a beginner-level pop song that uses 4 chords: Fm, Ab, Db, Eb in the key of Fm. The chord progression is i–III–VI–VII.

Chord Breakdown

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

About Locked Out of Heaven

"Locked Out of Heaven" by Bruno Mars (released 2012) 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, Db creates a harmonic loop that feels both complete and constantly forward-moving.

Learning Locked Out of Heaven as a Beginner

If you're learning to play Locked Out of Heaven, 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
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Ab – Eb – Fm – Db
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Ab · 138 BPM
Bohemian Rhapsody
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Bb – Gm – Cm – F – Eb
Advanced
Bb · 72 BPM
A Thousand Years
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Bb – F – Gm – Eb
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Bb · 45 BPM
Smells Like Teen Spirit
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F – Bb – Ab – Db
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F · 116 BPM
Clocks
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Eb – Bb – Fm
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Eb · 131 BPM
Fix You
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Eb – Bb – Cm – Ab
Beginner
Eb · 71 BPM
Metronome
Practice at 120 BPM
Tuner
Tune your instrument
Piano
Play on virtual piano
Guitar
Play on fretboard

Knowledge Base & FAQs

Locked Out of Heaven by Bruno Mars — FAQ

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

What chords are in Locked Out of Heaven by Bruno Mars?

Locked Out of Heaven uses the chords Fm, Ab, Db, Eb in the key of Fm.

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

What key is Locked Out of Heaven in?

Locked Out of Heaven by Bruno Mars is in the key of Fm.

The primary chords are Fm, Ab, Db.

What is the tempo of Locked Out of Heaven?

Locked Out of Heaven 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 Locked Out of Heaven use?

Locked Out of Heaven 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 Locked Out of Heaven.

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

Can I play Locked Out of Heaven on piano?

Yes! Locked Out of Heaven sounds great on piano.

Play the chords Fm, Ab, Db, Eb 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 Locked Out of Heaven beginner-friendly?

Yes! Locked Out of Heaven is rated Beginner difficulty.

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

What is the chord progression in Locked Out of Heaven?

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

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

Can I transpose Locked Out of Heaven to a different key?

Yes! Locked Out of Heaven 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 Locked Out of Heaven?

Locked Out of Heaven by Bruno Mars is a Pop song from 2012.

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