Set Fire to the Rain — Quick Answer & Harmonic Definition

Set Fire to the Rain uses the chords Dm, F, C, Bb in the key of Dm. The progression follows a i–III–VII–VI pattern. This is a intermediate-level song.

Pop · 2011 · Intermediate

Set Fire to the Rain

by Adele
Key of Dm 108 BPM Intermediate

Chord Sheet

Key of Dm · Progression: i–III–VII–VI

Dm
chord 1
F
chord 2
C
chord 3
Bb
chord 4
Chord Loop
Dm — F — C — Bb — ...
Roman Numeral Analysis
View the harmonic structure and functional analysis of this progression.
View Analysis →
Key
Dm
Tempo
108 BPM
Chords
4
Genre
Pop

Practice Tips for Set Fire to the Rain

  • →Start at 54 BPM (50% tempo) until chord changes feel smooth.
  • →Loop just the Dm→F transition repeatedly — this is often the hardest change.
  • →Use our Metronome set to 108 BPM for precise timing practice.
  • →Click any chord above to see its full piano keyboard and guitar fingering diagram.

How to Play Set Fire to the Rain by Adele

Set Fire to the Rain (2011) is a intermediate-level pop song that uses 4 chords: Dm, F, C, Bb in the key of Dm. The chord progression is i–III–VII–VI.

Chord Breakdown

  • Dm — minor chord, darker emotional sound
  • F — major chord, bright and stable
  • C — major chord, bright and stable
  • Bb — major chord, bright and stable

About Set Fire to the Rain

"Set Fire to the Rain" by Adele (released 2011) 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 Dm, F, C creates a harmonic loop that feels both complete and constantly forward-moving.

Learning Set Fire to the Rain as a Beginner

If you're learning to play Set Fire to the Rain, 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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Knockin' on Heaven's Door
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Perfect
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Hallelujah
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No Woman No Cry
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C – G – Am – F
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Creep
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G – B – C – Cm
Beginner
G · 92 BPM
Metronome
Practice at 108 BPM
Tuner
Tune your instrument
Piano
Play on virtual piano
Guitar
Play on fretboard

Knowledge Base & FAQs

Set Fire to the Rain by Adele — FAQ

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

What chords are in Set Fire to the Rain by Adele?

Set Fire to the Rain uses the chords Dm, F, C, Bb in the key of Dm.

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

What key is Set Fire to the Rain in?

Set Fire to the Rain by Adele is in the key of Dm.

The primary chords are Dm, F, C.

What is the tempo of Set Fire to the Rain?

Set Fire to the Rain is played at approximately 108 BPM.

This moderate tempo is comfortable for intermediate players. Use our free metronome to practice at exactly 108 BPM.

What strumming pattern does Set Fire to the Rain use?

Set Fire to the Rain 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 Dm chord on guitar?

Dm is the main chord in Set Fire to the Rain.

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

Can I play Set Fire to the Rain on piano?

Yes! Set Fire to the Rain sounds great on piano.

Play the chords Dm, F, C, Bb 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 Set Fire to the Rain beginner-friendly?

Set Fire to the Rain is rated Intermediate difficulty.

The chord changes and rhythm require some practice.

What is the chord progression in Set Fire to the Rain?

The main progression in Set Fire to the Rain is Dm – F – C – Bb (Roman numeral: i–III–VII–VI).

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

Can I transpose Set Fire to the Rain to a different key?

Yes! Set Fire to the Rain is in Dm.

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 Set Fire to the Rain?

Set Fire to the Rain by Adele is a Pop song from 2011.

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