Chasing Cars — Quick Answer & Harmonic Definition

Chasing Cars uses the chords A, D, E in the key of A. The progression follows a I–IV–V pattern. This is a beginner-level song.

Indie · 2006 · Beginner

Chasing Cars

by Snow Patrol
Key of A 104 BPM Beginner

Chord Sheet

Key of A · Progression: I–IV–V

A
chord 1
D
chord 2
E
chord 3
Chord Loop
A — D — E — ...
Roman Numeral Analysis
View the harmonic structure and functional analysis of this progression.
View Analysis →
Key
A
Tempo
104 BPM
Chords
3
Genre
Indie

Practice Tips for Chasing Cars

  • →Start at 52 BPM (50% tempo) until chord changes feel smooth.
  • →Loop just the A→D transition repeatedly — this is often the hardest change.
  • →Use our Metronome set to 104 BPM for precise timing practice.
  • →Click any chord above to see its full piano keyboard and guitar fingering diagram.

How to Play Chasing Cars by Snow Patrol

Chasing Cars (2006) is a beginner-level indie song that uses 3 chords: A, D, E in the key of A. The chord progression is I–IV–V.

Chord Breakdown

  • A — major chord, bright and stable
  • D — major chord, bright and stable
  • E — major chord, bright and stable

About Chasing Cars

"Chasing Cars" by Snow Patrol (released 2006) is one of the most recognizable indie 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 A, D, E creates a harmonic loop that feels both complete and constantly forward-moving.

Learning Chasing Cars as a Beginner

If you're learning to play Chasing Cars, 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.

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Metronome
Practice at 104 BPM
Tuner
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Piano
Play on virtual piano
Guitar
Play on fretboard

Knowledge Base & FAQs

Chasing Cars by Snow Patrol — FAQ

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

What chords are in Chasing Cars by Snow Patrol?

Chasing Cars uses the chords A, D, E in the key of A.

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

What key is Chasing Cars in?

Chasing Cars by Snow Patrol is in the key of A.

The primary chords are A, D, E.

What is the tempo of Chasing Cars?

Chasing Cars is played at approximately 104 BPM.

This moderate tempo is comfortable for intermediate players. Use our free metronome to practice at exactly 104 BPM.

What strumming pattern does Chasing Cars use?

Chasing Cars 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 A chord on guitar?

A is the main chord in Chasing Cars.

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

Can I play Chasing Cars on piano?

Yes! Chasing Cars sounds great on piano.

Play the chords A, D, E 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 Chasing Cars beginner-friendly?

Yes! Chasing Cars is rated Beginner difficulty.

It uses 3 main chords (A, D, E), all easy open or basic chords. One of the best songs for new players to learn.

What is the chord progression in Chasing Cars?

The main progression in Chasing Cars is A – D – E (Roman numeral: I–IV–V).

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

Can I transpose Chasing Cars to a different key?

Yes! Chasing Cars is in A.

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 Chasing Cars?

Chasing Cars by Snow Patrol is a Indie song from 2006.

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