Kids — Quick Answer & Harmonic Definition

Kids uses the chords Bm, G, D, A in the key of Bm. The progression follows a i–VI–III–VII pattern. This is a beginner-level song.

Alternative · 2007 · Beginner

Kids

by MGMT
Key of Bm 120 BPM Beginner

Chord Sheet

Key of Bm · Progression: i–VI–III–VII

Bm
chord 1
G
chord 2
D
chord 3
A
chord 4
Chord Loop
Bm — G — D — A — ...
Roman Numeral Analysis
View the harmonic structure and functional analysis of this progression.
View Analysis →
Key
Bm
Tempo
120 BPM
Chords
4
Genre
Alternative

Practice Tips for Kids

  • →Start at 60 BPM (50% tempo) until chord changes feel smooth.
  • →Loop just the Bm→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 Kids by MGMT

Kids (2007) is a beginner-level alternative song that uses 4 chords: Bm, G, D, A in the key of Bm. The chord progression is i–VI–III–VII.

Chord Breakdown

  • Bm — minor chord, darker emotional sound
  • G — major chord, bright and stable
  • D — major chord, bright and stable
  • A — major chord, bright and stable

About Kids

"Kids" by MGMT (released 2007) is one of the most recognizable alternative 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 Bm, G, D creates a harmonic loop that feels both complete and constantly forward-moving.

Learning Kids as a Beginner

If you're learning to play Kids, 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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Metronome
Practice at 120 BPM
Tuner
Tune your instrument
Piano
Play on virtual piano
Guitar
Play on fretboard

Knowledge Base & FAQs

Kids by MGMT — FAQ

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

What chords are in Kids by MGMT?

Kids uses the chords Bm, G, D, A in the key of Bm.

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

What key is Kids in?

Kids by MGMT is in the key of Bm.

The primary chords are Bm, G, D.

What is the tempo of Kids?

Kids 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 Kids use?

Kids 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 Bm chord on guitar?

Bm is the main chord in Kids.

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

Can I play Kids on piano?

Yes! Kids sounds great on piano.

Play the chords Bm, G, D, A 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 Kids beginner-friendly?

Yes! Kids is rated Beginner difficulty.

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

What is the chord progression in Kids?

The main progression in Kids is Bm – G – D – A (Roman numeral: i–VI–III–VII).

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

Can I transpose Kids to a different key?

Yes! Kids is in Bm.

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 Kids?

Kids by MGMT is a Alternative song from 2007.

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