Back in Black — Quick Answer & Harmonic Definition

Back in Black uses the chords E, D, A, G in the key of E. The progression follows a I–VII–IV–III pattern. This is a intermediate-level song.

Rock · 1980 · Intermediate

Back in Black

by AC/DC
Key of E 120 BPM Intermediate

Chord Sheet

Key of E · Progression: I–VII–IV–III

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

Practice Tips for Back in Black

  • →Start at 60 BPM (50% tempo) until chord changes feel smooth.
  • →Loop just the E→D 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 Back in Black by AC/DC

Back in Black (1980) is a intermediate-level rock song that uses 4 chords: E, D, A, G in the key of E. The chord progression is I–VII–IV–III.

Chord Breakdown

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

About Back in Black

"Back in Black" by AC/DC (released 1980) is one of the most recognizable rock 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 E, D, A creates a harmonic loop that feels both complete and constantly forward-moving.

Learning Back in Black as a Beginner

If you're learning to play Back in Black, 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
Beginner
C · 75 BPM
Wonderwall
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Knockin' on Heaven's Door
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Stand By Me
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A – F#m – D – E
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Perfect
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G – Em – C – D
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Hallelujah
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C – Am – F – G – E7
Intermediate
C · 68 BPM
Metronome
Practice at 120 BPM
Tuner
Tune your instrument
Piano
Play on virtual piano
Guitar
Play on fretboard

Knowledge Base & FAQs

Back in Black by AC/DC — FAQ

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

What chords are in Back in Black by AC/DC?

Back in Black uses the chords E, D, A, G in the key of E.

The progression follows a I–VII–IV–III pattern. This is a intermediate-level song.

What key is Back in Black in?

Back in Black by AC/DC is in the key of E.

The primary chords are E, D, A.

What is the tempo of Back in Black?

Back in Black 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 Back in Black use?

Back in Black 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 E chord on guitar?

E is the main chord in Back in Black.

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

Can I play Back in Black on piano?

Yes! Back in Black sounds great on piano.

Play the chords E, D, A, G 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 Back in Black beginner-friendly?

Back in Black is rated Intermediate difficulty.

The chord changes and rhythm require some practice.

What is the chord progression in Back in Black?

The main progression in Back in Black is E – D – A – G (Roman numeral: I–VII–IV–III).

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

Can I transpose Back in Black to a different key?

Yes! Back in Black is in E.

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 Back in Black?

Back in Black by AC/DC is a Rock song from 1980.

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