Treasure — Quick Answer & Harmonic Definition

Treasure uses the chords Db, Gb, Ab, Bbm in the key of Db. The progression follows a I–IV–V–vi pattern. This is a beginner-level song.

Pop · 2013 · Beginner

Treasure

by Bruno Mars
Key of Db 120 BPM Beginner

Chord Sheet

Key of Db · Progression: I–IV–V–vi

Chord Loop
Db — Gb — Ab — Bbm — ...
Roman Numeral Analysis
View the harmonic structure and functional analysis of this progression.
View Analysis →
Key
Db
Tempo
120 BPM
Chords
4
Genre
Pop

Practice Tips for Treasure

  • Start at 60 BPM (50% tempo) until chord changes feel smooth.
  • Loop just the Db→Gb 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 Treasure by Bruno Mars

Treasure (2013) is a beginner-level pop song that uses 4 chords: Db, Gb, Ab, Bbm in the key of Db. The chord progression is I–IV–V–vi.

Chord Breakdown

  • Db — major chord, bright and stable
  • Gb — major chord, bright and stable
  • Ab — major chord, bright and stable
  • Bbm — minor chord, darker emotional sound

About Treasure

"Treasure" by Bruno Mars (released 2013) 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 Db, Gb, Ab creates a harmonic loop that feels both complete and constantly forward-moving.

Learning Treasure as a Beginner

If you're learning to play Treasure, 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.

Knowledge Base & FAQs

Treasure 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 Treasure by Bruno Mars?

Treasure uses the chords Db, Gb, Ab, Bbm in the key of Db.

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

What key is Treasure in?

Treasure by Bruno Mars is in the key of Db.

The primary chords are Db, Gb, Ab.

What is the tempo of Treasure?

Treasure 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 Treasure use?

Treasure 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 Db chord on guitar?

Db is the main chord in Treasure.

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

Can I play Treasure on piano?

Yes! Treasure sounds great on piano.

Play the chords Db, Gb, Ab, Bbm 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 Treasure beginner-friendly?

Yes! Treasure is rated Beginner difficulty.

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

What is the chord progression in Treasure?

The main progression in Treasure is Db – Gb – Ab – Bbm (Roman numeral: I–IV–V–vi).

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

Can I transpose Treasure to a different key?

Yes! Treasure is in Db.

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 Treasure?

Treasure by Bruno Mars is a Pop song from 2013.

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