Paranoid Android — Quick Answer & Harmonic Definition

Paranoid Android uses the chords C, D, Em, F, G in the key of C. The progression follows a I–II–iii–IV–V pattern. This is a advanced-level song.

Rock · 1997 · Advanced

Paranoid Android

by Radiohead
Key of C 120 BPM Advanced

Chord Sheet

Key of C · Progression: I–II–iii–IV–V

C
chord 1
D
chord 2
Em
chord 3
F
chord 4
G
chord 5
Chord Loop
C — D — Em — F — G — ...
Roman Numeral Analysis
View the harmonic structure and functional analysis of this progression.
View Analysis →
Key
C
Tempo
120 BPM
Chords
5
Genre
Rock

Practice Tips for Paranoid Android

  • →Start at 60 BPM (50% tempo) until chord changes feel smooth.
  • →Loop just the C→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 Paranoid Android by Radiohead

Paranoid Android (1997) is a advanced-level rock song that uses 5 chords: C, D, Em, F, G in the key of C. The chord progression is I–II–iii–IV–V.

Chord Breakdown

  • C — major chord, bright and stable
  • D — major chord, bright and stable
  • Em — minor chord, darker emotional sound
  • F — major chord, bright and stable
  • G — major chord, bright and stable

About Paranoid Android

"Paranoid Android" by Radiohead (released 1997) is one of the most recognizable rock songs ever recorded. Its 5-chord structure demonstrates how a simple progression can create an emotionally powerful and memorable piece of music. The combination of C, D, Em creates a harmonic loop that feels both complete and constantly forward-moving.

Learning Paranoid Android as a Beginner

If you're learning to play Paranoid Android, 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
The Beatles
C – G – Am – F
Beginner
C · 75 BPM
Wonderwall
Oasis
Em – G – D – A7sus4
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Em · 87 BPM
Knockin' on Heaven's Door
Bob Dylan
G – D – Am – C
Beginner
G · 72 BPM
Stand By Me
Ben E. King
A – F#m – D – E
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A · 76 BPM
Perfect
Ed Sheeran
G – Em – C – D
Beginner
G · 96 BPM
Hallelujah
Leonard Cohen
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

Paranoid Android by Radiohead — FAQ

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

What chords are in Paranoid Android by Radiohead?

Paranoid Android uses the chords C, D, Em, F, G in the key of C.

The progression follows a I–II–iii–IV–V pattern. This is a advanced-level song.

What key is Paranoid Android in?

Paranoid Android by Radiohead is in the key of C.

The primary chords are C, D, Em.

What is the tempo of Paranoid Android?

Paranoid Android 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 Paranoid Android use?

Paranoid Android 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 C chord on guitar?

C is the main chord in Paranoid Android.

For C major: 3rd fret 5th string (A), 2nd fret 4th string (D), 1st fret 2nd string (B). Don't play 6th string.

Can I play Paranoid Android on piano?

Yes! Paranoid Android sounds great on piano.

Play the chords C, D, Em, F, G in root position or inversions. Left hand plays bass notes (root of each chord), right hand plays chord voicings. This is a advanced-level arrangement.

Is Paranoid Android beginner-friendly?

Paranoid Android is rated Advanced difficulty.

This song demands significant experience with barre chords and complex patterns.

What is the chord progression in Paranoid Android?

The main progression in Paranoid Android is C – D – Em – F – G (Roman numeral: I–II–iii–IV–V).

This 5-chord pattern repeats throughout most of the song.

Can I transpose Paranoid Android to a different key?

Yes! Paranoid Android is in C.

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 Paranoid Android?

Paranoid Android by Radiohead is a Rock song from 1997.

Its 5-chord progression (C, D, Em, F, G) translates naturally to different tempos and styles, making it a popular cover choice for musicians of all levels.