Poker Face — Quick Answer & Harmonic Definition

Poker Face uses the chords Ab, Db, Gb, Eb in the key of Ab. The progression follows a I–IV–bVII–V pattern. This is a beginner-level song.

Pop · 2008 · Beginner

Poker Face

by Lady Gaga
Key of Ab 119 BPM Beginner

Chord Sheet

Key of Ab · Progression: I–IV–bVII–V

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

Practice Tips for Poker Face

  • →Start at 60 BPM (50% tempo) until chord changes feel smooth.
  • →Loop just the Ab→Db transition repeatedly — this is often the hardest change.
  • →Use our Metronome set to 119 BPM for precise timing practice.
  • →Click any chord above to see its full piano keyboard and guitar fingering diagram.

How to Play Poker Face by Lady Gaga

Poker Face (2008) is a beginner-level pop song that uses 4 chords: Ab, Db, Gb, Eb in the key of Ab. The chord progression is I–IV–bVII–V.

Chord Breakdown

  • Ab — major chord, bright and stable
  • Db — major chord, bright and stable
  • Gb — major chord, bright and stable
  • Eb — major chord, bright and stable

About Poker Face

"Poker Face" by Lady Gaga (released 2008) 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 Ab, Db, Gb creates a harmonic loop that feels both complete and constantly forward-moving.

Learning Poker Face as a Beginner

If you're learning to play Poker Face, 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)

Viva La Vida
Coldplay
Ab – Eb – Fm – Db
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Ab · 138 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
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F · 116 BPM
Clocks
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Eb – Bb – Fm
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Eb · 131 BPM
Fix You
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Eb – Bb – Cm – Ab
Beginner
Eb · 71 BPM
Metronome
Practice at 119 BPM
Tuner
Tune your instrument
Piano
Play on virtual piano
Guitar
Play on fretboard

Knowledge Base & FAQs

Poker Face by Lady Gaga — FAQ

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

What chords are in Poker Face by Lady Gaga?

Poker Face uses the chords Ab, Db, Gb, Eb in the key of Ab.

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

What key is Poker Face in?

Poker Face by Lady Gaga is in the key of Ab.

The primary chords are Ab, Db, Gb.

What is the tempo of Poker Face?

Poker Face is played at approximately 119 BPM.

This moderate tempo is comfortable for intermediate players. Use our free metronome to practice at exactly 119 BPM.

What strumming pattern does Poker Face use?

Poker Face 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 Ab chord on guitar?

Ab is the main chord in Poker Face.

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

Can I play Poker Face on piano?

Yes! Poker Face sounds great on piano.

Play the chords Ab, Db, Gb, Eb 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 Poker Face beginner-friendly?

Yes! Poker Face is rated Beginner difficulty.

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

What is the chord progression in Poker Face?

The main progression in Poker Face is Ab – Db – Gb – Eb (Roman numeral: I–IV–bVII–V).

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

Can I transpose Poker Face to a different key?

Yes! Poker Face is in Ab.

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 Poker Face?

Poker Face by Lady Gaga is a Pop song from 2008.

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