Scar Tissue — Quick Answer & Harmonic Definition

Scar Tissue uses the chords C, G, Am, F in the key of C. The progression follows a I–V–vi–IV pattern. This is a beginner-level song.

Rock · 1999 · Beginner

Scar Tissue

by Red Hot Chili Peppers
Key of C 120 BPM Beginner

Chord Sheet

Key of C · Progression: I–V–vi–IV

C
chord 1
G
chord 2
Am
chord 3
F
chord 4
Chord Loop
C — G — Am — F — ...
Roman Numeral Analysis
View the harmonic structure and functional analysis of this progression.
View Analysis →
Key
C
Tempo
120 BPM
Chords
4
Genre
Rock

Practice Tips for Scar Tissue

  • →Start at 60 BPM (50% tempo) until chord changes feel smooth.
  • →Loop just the C→G 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 Scar Tissue by Red Hot Chili Peppers

Scar Tissue (1999) is a beginner-level rock song that uses 4 chords: C, G, Am, F in the key of C. The chord progression is I–V–vi–IV.

Chord Breakdown

  • C — major chord, bright and stable
  • G — major chord, bright and stable
  • Am — minor chord, darker emotional sound
  • F — major chord, bright and stable

About Scar Tissue

"Scar Tissue" by Red Hot Chili Peppers (released 1999) is one of the most recognizable rock 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 C, G, Am creates a harmonic loop that feels both complete and constantly forward-moving.

Learning Scar Tissue as a Beginner

If you're learning to play Scar Tissue, 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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C – G – Am – F
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Wonderwall
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Knockin' on Heaven's Door
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G – D – Am – C
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Perfect
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G – Em – C – D
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Hallelujah
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C – Am – F – G – E7
Intermediate
C · 68 BPM
Hotel California
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Bm – F# – A – E – G – D – Em
Advanced
Bm · 74 BPM
Metronome
Practice at 120 BPM
Tuner
Tune your instrument
Piano
Play on virtual piano
Guitar
Play on fretboard

Knowledge Base & FAQs

Scar Tissue by Red Hot Chili Peppers — FAQ

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

What chords are in Scar Tissue by Red Hot Chili Peppers?

Scar Tissue uses the chords C, G, Am, F in the key of C.

The progression follows a I–V–vi–IV pattern. This is a beginner-level song.

What key is Scar Tissue in?

Scar Tissue by Red Hot Chili Peppers is in the key of C.

The primary chords are C, G, Am.

What is the tempo of Scar Tissue?

Scar Tissue 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 Scar Tissue use?

Scar Tissue 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 C chord on guitar?

C is the main chord in Scar Tissue.

For C major: 3rd fret 5th string (A), 2nd fret 4th string (D), 1st fret 2nd string (B). Don't play 6th string.

Can I play Scar Tissue on piano?

Yes! Scar Tissue sounds great on piano.

Play the chords C, G, Am, F 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 Scar Tissue beginner-friendly?

Yes! Scar Tissue is rated Beginner difficulty.

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

What is the chord progression in Scar Tissue?

The main progression in Scar Tissue is C – G – Am – F (Roman numeral: I–V–vi–IV).

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

Can I transpose Scar Tissue to a different key?

Yes! Scar Tissue is in C.

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 Scar Tissue?

Scar Tissue by Red Hot Chili Peppers is a Rock song from 1999.

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