Magic! · Don't Kill the Magic (2014)

Rude Chords

Full guitar & piano chord chart — No Capo · Key: C Major

Rude by Magic! is one of the most beginner-friendly songs on guitar — and one of the most fun to play. With no capo needed and just four main chords — C, D, G, and Em — this reggae-pop hit is a staple for guitar learners worldwide. The song is in the key of C major.

Artist: Magic! Album: Don't Kill the Magic (2014) Capo: No Capo Key: C Major Difficulty: Beginner Tuning: Standard EADGBE

Full Chord Chart

🎸 Verse 1C / D / Em / Em C / D / Em / Em C / D / G / Em C / D / G / Em
🎸 Pre-ChorusC / D G / B / Em C / D G / D C / D G / D G / Em
🎸 ChorusC / D / G / Em C / D / G / Em C / D G / Em C / D / G / Em C / D / G / Em C / D / G / Em / C / D / G / Em
🎸 Verse 2C / D / G / Em C / D / Em C / D / G / Em C / D / G / Em
🎸 Pre-Chorus 2C / D G / B / Em C / D G / D C / D G / D G / Em
🎸 Chorus 2C / D / G / Em C / D / G / Em C / D G / Em C / D / G / Em C / D / G / Em G / Em / C / D / G Em / C / D / G
🎸 OutroG / Em / C / D / G

Guitar & Piano Playing Tips

Rude has a classic reggae rhythmic feel — play on the off-beats (beats 2 and 4) rather than strumming all the way down. The C–D–G–Em progression is one of the most universally recognized chord loops in pop music. Practice muting between chords to get that choppy reggae texture. On piano, try a similar off-beat comping pattern in the right hand while the left hand walks the bass line.

Whether you're practicing on guitar or piano, our online guitar classes and piano lessons at JBX Music cover these exact chord shapes and progressions for all skill levels.

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Chords transcribed for educational purposes. Want to learn guitar or piano? Check our online guitar classes and piano lessons. Book JBX Band for your event — contact us here.