Hey Jude — Quick Answer & Harmonic Definition

Hey Jude uses the chords F, C, Bb in the key of F. The progression follows a I–V–IV pattern. This is a beginner-level song.

Rock · 1968 · Beginner

Hey Jude

by The Beatles
Key of F 73 BPM Beginner

Chord Sheet

Key of F · Progression: I–V–IV

F
chord 1
C
chord 2
Bb
chord 3
Chord Loop
F — C — Bb — ...
Key
F
Tempo
73 BPM
Chords
3
Genre
Rock

Practice Tips for Hey Jude

  • →Start at 37 BPM (50% tempo) until chord changes feel smooth.
  • →Loop just the F→C transition repeatedly — this is often the hardest change.
  • →Use our Metronome set to 73 BPM for precise timing practice.
  • →Click any chord above to see its full piano keyboard and guitar fingering diagram.

How to Play Hey Jude by The Beatles

Hey Jude (1968) is a beginner-level rock song that uses 3 chords: F, C, Bb in the key of F. The chord progression is I–V–IV.

Chord Breakdown

  • F — major chord, bright and stable
  • C — major chord, bright and stable
  • Bb — major chord, bright and stable

About Hey Jude

"Hey Jude" by The Beatles (released 1968) is one of the most recognizable rock songs ever recorded. Its 3-chord structure demonstrates how a simple progression can create an emotionally powerful and memorable piece of music. The combination of F, C, Bb creates a harmonic loop that feels both complete and constantly forward-moving.

Learning Hey Jude as a Beginner

If you're learning to play Hey Jude, 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
Knockin' on Heaven's Door
Bob Dylan
G – D – Am – C
Beginner
G · 72 BPM
Perfect
Ed Sheeran
G – Em – C – D
Beginner
G · 96 BPM
Hallelujah
Leonard Cohen
C – Am – F – G – E7
Intermediate
C · 68 BPM
No Woman No Cry
Bob Marley
C – G – Am – F
Beginner
C · 90 BPM
Creep
Radiohead
G – B – C – Cm
Beginner
G · 92 BPM
Metronome
Practice at 73 BPM
Tuner
Tune your instrument
Piano
Play on virtual piano
Guitar
Play on fretboard

Knowledge Base & FAQs

Hey Jude by The Beatles — FAQ

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

What chords are in Hey Jude by The Beatles?

Hey Jude uses the chords F, C, Bb in the key of F.

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

What key is Hey Jude in?

Hey Jude by The Beatles is in the key of F.

The primary chords are F, C, Bb.

What is the tempo of Hey Jude?

Hey Jude is played at approximately 73 BPM.

This slow tempo is great for beginners to focus on chord transitions. Use our free metronome to practice at exactly 73 BPM.

What strumming pattern does Hey Jude use?

Hey Jude 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 F chord on guitar?

F is the main chord in Hey Jude.

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

Can I play Hey Jude on piano?

Yes! Hey Jude sounds great on piano.

Play the chords F, C, 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 Hey Jude beginner-friendly?

Yes! Hey Jude is rated Beginner difficulty.

It uses 3 main chords (F, C, Bb), all easy open or basic chords. One of the best songs for new players to learn.

What is the chord progression in Hey Jude?

The main progression in Hey Jude is F – C – Bb (Roman numeral: I–V–IV).

This 3-chord pattern repeats throughout most of the song.

Can I transpose Hey Jude to a different key?

Yes! Hey Jude is in F.

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 Hey Jude?

Hey Jude by The Beatles is a Rock song from 1968.

Its 3-chord progression (F, C, Bb) translates naturally to different tempos and styles, making it a popular cover choice for musicians of all levels.