Let’s Stay Together — Quick Answer & Harmonic Definition

Let’s Stay Together uses the chords E, F#m, G#m, A in the key of E. The progression follows a I–ii–iii–IV pattern. This is a beginner-level song.

R&B · 1972 · Beginner

Let’s Stay Together

by Al Green
Key of E 120 BPM Beginner

Chord Sheet

Key of E · Progression: I–ii–iii–IV

E
chord 1
F#m
chord 2
G#m
chord 3
A
chord 4
Chord Loop
E — F#m — G#m — A — ...
Roman Numeral Analysis
View the harmonic structure and functional analysis of this progression.
View Analysis →
Key
E
Tempo
120 BPM
Chords
4
Genre
R&B

Practice Tips for Let’s Stay Together

  • →Start at 60 BPM (50% tempo) until chord changes feel smooth.
  • →Loop just the E→F#m 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 Let’s Stay Together by Al Green

Let’s Stay Together (1972) is a beginner-level r&b song that uses 4 chords: E, F#m, G#m, A in the key of E. The chord progression is I–ii–iii–IV.

Chord Breakdown

  • E — major chord, bright and stable
  • F#m — minor chord, darker emotional sound
  • G#m — minor chord, darker emotional sound
  • A — major chord, bright and stable

About Let’s Stay Together

"Let’s Stay Together" by Al Green (released 1972) is one of the most recognizable r&b 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 E, F#m, G#m creates a harmonic loop that feels both complete and constantly forward-moving.

Learning Let’s Stay Together as a Beginner

If you're learning to play Let’s Stay Together, 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)

Stand By Me
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Bad Moon Rising
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One
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Wake Me Up
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Bm – G – D – A
Beginner
Bm · 125 BPM
Metronome
Practice at 120 BPM
Tuner
Tune your instrument
Piano
Play on virtual piano
Guitar
Play on fretboard

Knowledge Base & FAQs

Let’s Stay Together by Al Green — FAQ

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

What chords are in Let’s Stay Together by Al Green?

Let’s Stay Together uses the chords E, F#m, G#m, A in the key of E.

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

What key is Let’s Stay Together in?

Let’s Stay Together by Al Green is in the key of E.

The primary chords are E, F#m, G#m.

What is the tempo of Let’s Stay Together?

Let’s Stay Together 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 Let’s Stay Together use?

Let’s Stay Together 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 E chord on guitar?

E is the main chord in Let’s Stay Together.

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

Can I play Let’s Stay Together on piano?

Yes! Let’s Stay Together sounds great on piano.

Play the chords E, F#m, G#m, A 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 Let’s Stay Together beginner-friendly?

Yes! Let’s Stay Together is rated Beginner difficulty.

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

What is the chord progression in Let’s Stay Together?

The main progression in Let’s Stay Together is E – F#m – G#m – A (Roman numeral: I–ii–iii–IV).

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

Can I transpose Let’s Stay Together to a different key?

Yes! Let’s Stay Together is in E.

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 Let’s Stay Together?

Let’s Stay Together by Al Green is a R&B song from 1972.

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