Highway to Hell Guitar Chords - AC/DC

About Highway to Hell

“Highway to Hell” by AC/DC is one of the greatest rock anthems ever written, built on a driving A–D–G power chord riff with an F#m twist in the chorus. Released in 1979, it showcases Angus Young’s signature hard rock rhythm playing. With just four chords and a punchy D DU UDU strumming pattern, it’s one of the most rewarding intermediate guitar songs to learn — instantly recognisable and endlessly fun to play. This free chord sheet covers the verse, chorus, and full song structure.

Guitar Chords for Highway to Hell

Chords Used

A G D F#m

Strumming Pattern

D DU UDU

How to Play Highway to Hell on Guitar

Verse

A  /  G  D  /  G  A
D  A  /  A  /  G

Chorus

A  D  G  — 6 Times
A  /  D  F#m  A

Song Structure

INTRO — VERSE — CHORUS — VERSE — CHORUS — END

Playing Tips

The A–G–D riff is the heart of the song — nail that transition first. Use palm muting on the intro and verse for the tight, percussive AC/DC sound. The F#m in the chorus requires a barre at fret 2; if you’re not comfortable with barre chords yet, practice the shape separately before attempting the full chorus. Keep your strumming aggressive and rhythmic — this song thrives on energy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What chords are in Highway to Hell?

Highway to Hell uses A, G, D, and F#m. The verse is mainly A–G–D and the chorus adds F#m.

Is Highway to Hell hard to play on guitar?

It’s intermediate level. The chord shapes are manageable, but the F#m barre chord and the fast, driving strumming pattern require practice to get right.

What key is Highway to Hell in?

Highway to Hell is in A Major.

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