Straight No Chaser — Quick Answer & Harmonic Definition

Straight No Chaser uses the chords Bb7, Eb7, F7 in the key of Bb. The progression follows a I7–IV7–V7 pattern. This is a intermediate-level song.

Jazz · 1951 · Intermediate

Straight No Chaser

by Thelonious Monk
Key of Bb 120 BPM Intermediate

Chord Sheet

Key of Bb · Progression: I7–IV7–V7

Bb7
chord 1
Eb7
chord 2
F7
chord 3
Chord Loop
Bb7 — Eb7 — F7 — ...
Roman Numeral Analysis
View the harmonic structure and functional analysis of this progression.
View Analysis →
Key
Bb
Tempo
120 BPM
Chords
3
Genre
Jazz

Practice Tips for Straight No Chaser

  • →Start at 60 BPM (50% tempo) until chord changes feel smooth.
  • →Loop just the Bb7→Eb7 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 Straight No Chaser by Thelonious Monk

Straight No Chaser (1951) is a intermediate-level jazz song that uses 3 chords: Bb7, Eb7, F7 in the key of Bb. The chord progression is I7–IV7–V7.

Chord Breakdown

  • Bb7 — dominant 7th, adds tension and movement
  • Eb7 — dominant 7th, adds tension and movement
  • F7 — dominant 7th, adds tension and movement

About Straight No Chaser

"Straight No Chaser" by Thelonious Monk (released 1951) is one of the most recognizable jazz 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 Bb7, Eb7, F7 creates a harmonic loop that feels both complete and constantly forward-moving.

Learning Straight No Chaser as a Beginner

If you're learning to play Straight No Chaser, 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)

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A Thousand Years
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Rockstar
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Make You Feel My Love
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Bb – F – Gm – Eb
Beginner
Bb · 120 BPM
Smokin Out the Window
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Eb – Cm – Fm7 – Bb7
Intermediate
Eb · 120 BPM
Blue in Green
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Dm7 – Cm7 – F7 – Bbmaj7
Advanced
Dm · 120 BPM
Metronome
Practice at 120 BPM
Tuner
Tune your instrument
Piano
Play on virtual piano
Guitar
Play on fretboard

Knowledge Base & FAQs

Straight No Chaser by Thelonious Monk — FAQ

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

What chords are in Straight No Chaser by Thelonious Monk?

Straight No Chaser uses the chords Bb7, Eb7, F7 in the key of Bb.

The progression follows a I7–IV7–V7 pattern. This is a intermediate-level song.

What key is Straight No Chaser in?

Straight No Chaser by Thelonious Monk is in the key of Bb.

The primary chords are Bb7, Eb7, F7.

What is the tempo of Straight No Chaser?

Straight No Chaser 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 Straight No Chaser use?

Straight No Chaser 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 Bb7 chord on guitar?

Bb7 is the main chord in Straight No Chaser.

See our chord library for the Bb7 chord diagram with exact fingering.

Can I play Straight No Chaser on piano?

Yes! Straight No Chaser sounds great on piano.

Play the chords Bb7, Eb7, F7 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 Straight No Chaser beginner-friendly?

Straight No Chaser is rated Intermediate difficulty.

The chord changes and rhythm require some practice.

What is the chord progression in Straight No Chaser?

The main progression in Straight No Chaser is Bb7 – Eb7 – F7 (Roman numeral: I7–IV7–V7).

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

Can I transpose Straight No Chaser to a different key?

Yes! Straight No Chaser is in Bb.

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 Straight No Chaser?

Straight No Chaser by Thelonious Monk is a Jazz song from 1951.

Its 3-chord progression (Bb7, Eb7, F7) translates naturally to different tempos and styles, making it a popular cover choice for musicians of all levels.