Song key chart

1. How do you determine the key of a song?
2. How can you tell what key a song is in by ear?
3. What key are popular songs in?

How do you determine the key of a song?

The easiest way to figure out the key of a song is by using its key signature. The number of sharps/flats in the key signature tell you the key of the song. A key signature with no sharps or flats is the key of C (or A minor).

How can you tell what key a song is in by ear?

In a lot of metal, the tonic note will be the open 6th string (E, D, C, B, A, depending on the tuning). Once you can identify the tonic chord, based on this resolution feel, it's again just a case of finding the root and quality (major/minor) of that chord on the fretboard. This will tell you the song's key.

What key are popular songs in?

C major and G major, along with their relative minor counterparts A minor and E minor, are often considered the best key and scales for Pop music.