That’s What I Like — Quick Answer & Harmonic Definition

That’s What I Like uses the chords C#m, F#m, G#7, A in the key of C#m. The progression follows a i–iv–V7–VI pattern. This is a intermediate-level song.

Pop · 2017 · Intermediate

That’s What I Like

by Bruno Mars
Key of C#m 120 BPM Intermediate

Chord Sheet

Key of C#m · Progression: i–iv–V7–VI

C#m
chord 1
F#m
chord 2
G#7
chord 3
A
chord 4
Chord Loop
C#m — F#m — G#7 — A — ...
Roman Numeral Analysis
View the harmonic structure and functional analysis of this progression.
View Analysis →
Key
C#m
Tempo
120 BPM
Chords
4
Genre
Pop

Practice Tips for That’s What I Like

  • →Start at 60 BPM (50% tempo) until chord changes feel smooth.
  • →Loop just the C#m→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 That’s What I Like by Bruno Mars

That’s What I Like (2017) is a intermediate-level pop song that uses 4 chords: C#m, F#m, G#7, A in the key of C#m. The chord progression is i–iv–V7–VI.

Chord Breakdown

  • C#m — minor chord, darker emotional sound
  • F#m — minor chord, darker emotional sound
  • G#7 — dominant 7th, adds tension and movement
  • A — major chord, bright and stable

About That’s What I Like

"That’s What I Like" by Bruno Mars (released 2017) 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 C#m, F#m, G#7 creates a harmonic loop that feels both complete and constantly forward-moving.

Learning That’s What I Like as a Beginner

If you're learning to play That’s What I Like, 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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A – F#m – D – E
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Hotel California
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Bad Moon Rising
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One
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Bm – D – A – E – G
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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

That’s What I Like by Bruno Mars — FAQ

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

What chords are in That’s What I Like by Bruno Mars?

That’s What I Like uses the chords C#m, F#m, G#7, A in the key of C#m.

The progression follows a i–iv–V7–VI pattern. This is a intermediate-level song.

What key is That’s What I Like in?

That’s What I Like by Bruno Mars is in the key of C#m.

The primary chords are C#m, F#m, G#7.

What is the tempo of That’s What I Like?

That’s What I Like 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 That’s What I Like use?

That’s What I Like 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#m chord on guitar?

C#m is the main chord in That’s What I Like.

See our chord library for the C#m chord diagram with exact fingering.

Can I play That’s What I Like on piano?

Yes! That’s What I Like sounds great on piano.

Play the chords C#m, F#m, G#7, A 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 That’s What I Like beginner-friendly?

That’s What I Like is rated Intermediate difficulty.

The chord changes and rhythm require some practice.

What is the chord progression in That’s What I Like?

The main progression in That’s What I Like is C#m – F#m – G#7 – A (Roman numeral: i–iv–V7–VI).

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

Can I transpose That’s What I Like to a different key?

Yes! That’s What I Like is in C#m.

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 That’s What I Like?

That’s What I Like by Bruno Mars is a Pop song from 2017.

Its 4-chord progression (C#m, F#m, G#7, A) translates naturally to different tempos and styles, making it a popular cover choice for musicians of all levels.