Cheap Thrills
Guitar chords by Sia · Key of E Minor
Cheap Thrills Guitar Chords
Cheap Thrills by Sia is one of the most accessible four-chord pop songs for beginners, using Em, C, G and D throughout every section without a single chord change to the formula. The E Minor key gives the song its slightly moody tone, and the steady D DU UDU strumming pattern is easy to lock in from the first practice session. It's widely recommended as an early milestone song for new guitar students.
Chords Used
Strumming Pattern
How to Play Cheap Thrills on Guitar
Because all four chords repeat identically through every part of the song, your entire practice energy can go into making the transitions smooth and the strumming consistent. The Em to C movement is the most common transition — keep your middle and ring fingers on strings 4 and 5 when switching between them to minimise hand movement. Once the chord loop feels automatic, try singing along, which is how you will truly cement the timing.
Main Progression
Em / C / G / D
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cheap Thrills easy to play on guitar?
Yes — Cheap Thrills is one of the best beginner songs on guitar. It uses only four basic open chords (Em, C, G, D) that stay the same throughout the entire song. Most beginners can play it within one or two practice sessions.
What key is Cheap Thrills in?
Cheap Thrills by Sia is in the key of E Minor. No capo is required to play along with the original recording.
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