Rolling in the Deep — Quick Answer & Harmonic Definition

Rolling in the Deep uses the chords Cm, Eb, Fm, G in the key of Cm. The progression follows a i–III–iv–V pattern. This is a intermediate-level song.

Pop · 2010 · Intermediate

Rolling in the Deep

by Adele
Key of Cm 104 BPM Intermediate

Chord Sheet

Key of Cm · Progression: i–III–iv–V

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

Practice Tips for Rolling in the Deep

  • →Start at 52 BPM (50% tempo) until chord changes feel smooth.
  • →Loop just the Cm→Eb transition repeatedly — this is often the hardest change.
  • →Use our Metronome set to 104 BPM for precise timing practice.
  • →Click any chord above to see its full piano keyboard and guitar fingering diagram.

How to Play Rolling in the Deep by Adele

Rolling in the Deep (2010) is a intermediate-level pop song that uses 4 chords: Cm, Eb, Fm, G in the key of Cm. The chord progression is i–III–iv–V.

Chord Breakdown

  • Cm — minor chord, darker emotional sound
  • Eb — major chord, bright and stable
  • Fm — minor chord, darker emotional sound
  • G — major chord, bright and stable

About Rolling in the Deep

"Rolling in the Deep" by Adele (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, Eb, Fm creates a harmonic loop that feels both complete and constantly forward-moving.

Learning Rolling in the Deep as a Beginner

If you're learning to play Rolling in the Deep, 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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Wonderwall
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Perfect
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Hallelujah
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C – Am – F – G – E7
Intermediate
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Hotel California
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Bm – F# – A – E – G – D – Em
Advanced
Bm · 74 BPM
Metronome
Practice at 104 BPM
Tuner
Tune your instrument
Piano
Play on virtual piano
Guitar
Play on fretboard

Knowledge Base & FAQs

Rolling in the Deep by Adele — FAQ

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

What chords are in Rolling in the Deep by Adele?

Rolling in the Deep uses the chords Cm, Eb, Fm, G in the key of Cm.

The progression follows a i–III–iv–V pattern. This is a intermediate-level song.

What key is Rolling in the Deep in?

Rolling in the Deep by Adele is in the key of Cm.

The primary chords are Cm, Eb, Fm.

What is the tempo of Rolling in the Deep?

Rolling in the Deep is played at approximately 104 BPM.

This moderate tempo is comfortable for intermediate players. Use our free metronome to practice at exactly 104 BPM.

What strumming pattern does Rolling in the Deep use?

Rolling in the Deep 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 Rolling in the Deep.

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

Can I play Rolling in the Deep on piano?

Yes! Rolling in the Deep sounds great on piano.

Play the chords Cm, Eb, Fm, 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 Rolling in the Deep beginner-friendly?

Rolling in the Deep is rated Intermediate difficulty.

The chord changes and rhythm require some practice.

What is the chord progression in Rolling in the Deep?

The main progression in Rolling in the Deep is Cm – Eb – Fm – G (Roman numeral: i–III–iv–V).

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

Can I transpose Rolling in the Deep to a different key?

Yes! Rolling in the Deep 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 Rolling in the Deep?

Rolling in the Deep by Adele is a Pop song from 2010.

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