Stand By Me Chords: Ben E. King

"Stand By Me" by Ben E. King is one of the easiest classic songs to learn on guitar. Four open chords. The 50s progression (I-vi-IV-V) repeating throughout the entire song. The most recognizable bass line in pop history. And a vocal line that almost anyone can sing along with.

Released in 1961, the song has been covered by John Lennon, Tracy Chapman, Florence + the Machine, and countless wedding bands. Cover the chords and you can play it.

The Chords

Four open chords, no capo:

• G major
• Em
• C major
• D major

The progression: G-Em-C-D, repeating throughout the verse and chorus. This is the classic 50s progression, also called the I-vi-IV-V in the key of G.

The Strumming Pattern

The original recording is bass-driven, not strum-driven. For an acoustic version, a slow down-down-up-up-down-up at around 120 BPM works. Many players just use straight quarter-note down-strums (down on each beat) and let the rhythm section in their head fill in the rest.

The song breathes. Don't rush the chord changes. Each chord lasts two beats in the original, four beats in some acoustic arrangements.

The Bass Line (If You're Fingerpicking)

The famous bass line is: G-G-G, B-B, D-D-G (octave). For fingerstyle, your thumb plays the bass line on the low strings while your fingers handle the chord on the upper strings. The bass line follows the chord changes: it walks G-Em-C-D as the chords move.

The 50s Progression in Other Songs

Once you know the I-vi-IV-V, you've got dozens of songs:

• "Earth Angel" by The Penguins
• "Heart and Soul"
• "Every Breath You Take" by The Police (similar, with one variation)
• "Last Kiss" by Pearl Jam
• Half of doo-wop

FAQ: Stand By Me Questions

What key is "Stand By Me" in?

A major in the original. With no capo, you can play it in G major (one whole step lower) using the chord shapes above.

Is "Stand By Me" easy for beginners?

Yes. Four open chords, slow tempo, repetitive progression. One of the best first-songs to learn.

What's the chord progression in "Stand By Me"?

I-vi-IV-V. In G major: G-Em-C-D. The same progression repeats throughout the song.

Why is the bass line so famous?

Because it's instantly recognizable from a single note. The walking bass line under the chord progression is what gives the song its drive.

Can I play "Stand By Me" with just chords?

Yes. The chord progression carries the song fine without the bass line. For solo acoustic, strumming through G-Em-C-D works.