Time to Pretend — Quick Answer & Harmonic Definition

Time to Pretend uses the chords C, G, Am, F in the key of C. The progression follows a I–V–vi–IV pattern. This is a beginner-level song.

Alternative · 2007 · Beginner

Time to Pretend

by MGMT
Key of C 120 BPM Beginner

Chord Sheet

Key of C · Progression: I–V–vi–IV

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

Practice Tips for Time to Pretend

  • →Start at 60 BPM (50% tempo) until chord changes feel smooth.
  • →Loop just the C→G 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 Time to Pretend by MGMT

Time to Pretend (2007) is a beginner-level alternative song that uses 4 chords: C, G, Am, F in the key of C. The chord progression is I–V–vi–IV.

Chord Breakdown

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

About Time to Pretend

"Time to Pretend" by MGMT (released 2007) is one of the most recognizable alternative 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 C, G, Am creates a harmonic loop that feels both complete and constantly forward-moving.

Learning Time to Pretend as a Beginner

If you're learning to play Time to Pretend, 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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Perfect
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Intermediate
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Hotel California
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Advanced
Bm · 74 BPM
Metronome
Practice at 120 BPM
Tuner
Tune your instrument
Piano
Play on virtual piano
Guitar
Play on fretboard

Knowledge Base & FAQs

Time to Pretend by MGMT — FAQ

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

What chords are in Time to Pretend by MGMT?

Time to Pretend uses the chords C, G, Am, F in the key of C.

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

What key is Time to Pretend in?

Time to Pretend by MGMT is in the key of C.

The primary chords are C, G, Am.

What is the tempo of Time to Pretend?

Time to Pretend 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 Time to Pretend use?

Time to Pretend 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 Time to Pretend.

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 Time to Pretend on piano?

Yes! Time to Pretend sounds great on piano.

Play the chords C, G, Am, F 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 Time to Pretend beginner-friendly?

Yes! Time to Pretend is rated Beginner difficulty.

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

What is the chord progression in Time to Pretend?

The main progression in Time to Pretend is C – G – Am – F (Roman numeral: I–V–vi–IV).

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

Can I transpose Time to Pretend to a different key?

Yes! Time to Pretend 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 Time to Pretend?

Time to Pretend by MGMT is a Alternative song from 2007.

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