Grenade — Quick Answer & Harmonic Definition

Grenade uses the chords Cm, Ab, Eb, Bb in the key of Cm. The progression follows a i–VI–III–VII pattern. This is a beginner-level song.

Pop · 2010 · Beginner

Grenade

by Bruno Mars
Key of Cm 120 BPM Beginner

Chord Sheet

Key of Cm · Progression: i–VI–III–VII

Cm
chord 1
Ab
chord 2
Eb
chord 3
Bb
chord 4
Chord Loop
Cm — Ab — Eb — Bb — ...
Roman Numeral Analysis
View the harmonic structure and functional analysis of this progression.
View Analysis →
Key
Cm
Tempo
120 BPM
Chords
4
Genre
Pop

Practice Tips for Grenade

  • →Start at 60 BPM (50% tempo) until chord changes feel smooth.
  • →Loop just the Cm→Ab 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 Grenade by Bruno Mars

Grenade (2010) is a beginner-level pop song that uses 4 chords: Cm, Ab, Eb, Bb in the key of Cm. The chord progression is i–VI–III–VII.

Chord Breakdown

  • Cm — minor chord, darker emotional sound
  • Ab — major chord, bright and stable
  • Eb — major chord, bright and stable
  • Bb — major chord, bright and stable

About Grenade

"Grenade" by Bruno Mars (released 2010) 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 Cm, Ab, Eb creates a harmonic loop that feels both complete and constantly forward-moving.

Learning Grenade as a Beginner

If you're learning to play Grenade, 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)

Creep
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G – B – C – Cm
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G · 92 BPM
Viva La Vida
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Ab – Eb – Fm – Db
Intermediate
Ab · 138 BPM
Hey Jude
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F – C – Bb
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F · 73 BPM
Bohemian Rhapsody
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Bb – Gm – Cm – F – Eb
Advanced
Bb · 72 BPM
A Thousand Years
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Bb – F – Gm – Eb
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Bb · 45 BPM
Smells Like Teen Spirit
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F – Bb – Ab – Db
Beginner
F · 116 BPM
Metronome
Practice at 120 BPM
Tuner
Tune your instrument
Piano
Play on virtual piano
Guitar
Play on fretboard

Knowledge Base & FAQs

Grenade 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 Grenade by Bruno Mars?

Grenade uses the chords Cm, Ab, Eb, Bb in the key of Cm.

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

What key is Grenade in?

Grenade by Bruno Mars is in the key of Cm.

The primary chords are Cm, Ab, Eb.

What is the tempo of Grenade?

Grenade 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 Grenade use?

Grenade 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 Cm chord on guitar?

Cm is the main chord in Grenade.

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

Can I play Grenade on piano?

Yes! Grenade sounds great on piano.

Play the chords Cm, Ab, Eb, Bb 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 Grenade beginner-friendly?

Yes! Grenade is rated Beginner difficulty.

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

What is the chord progression in Grenade?

The main progression in Grenade is Cm – Ab – Eb – Bb (Roman numeral: i–VI–III–VII).

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

Can I transpose Grenade to a different key?

Yes! Grenade is in Cm.

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 Grenade?

Grenade by Bruno Mars is a Pop song from 2010.

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