House of the Rising Sun Chords - Easy

About House of the Rising Sun

“House of the Rising Sun” is one of the most enduring songs in rock history, popularised by The Animals in 1964 using a hypnotic Am–C–D–F arpeggio progression in A Minor. The song’s descending chord movement creates an instantly recognisable melancholy feel, and its structure — built on repeating verses with a memorable organ/guitar solo — makes it a rewarding song for intermediate guitarists. This free chord sheet covers the full arrangement including all verses, the solo section, and the ritardando coda.

Guitar Chords for House of the Rising Sun

Chords Used

Am C D F E Dm

Strumming Pattern

Arpeggios

How to Play House of the Rising Sun on Guitar

Intro

| Am | C | D | F |
| Am | E | Am | E |

Verse (All)

Am    C        D            F
Am    C        E
(repeat for each verse)

Organ Solo

| Am | C | D | F |
| Am | C | E |
| Am | C | D | F |
| Am | E |

Coda

| Am | Dm | Am | Dm | Am | Dm |
| Am | Dm | Am |
(ritardando)

Playing Tips

This song is played with arpeggios, not strumming — pick each string in the chord individually in a flowing 6/8 feel. The Am→C transition is your most frequent change; get it smooth and clean. The D chord shape on the 2nd fret and the F chord (requiring a partial barre) are the main technical challenges. Practice the Am–C–D–F cycle on loop until the finger movements feel automatic before attempting full tempo.

Frequently Asked Questions

What chords are in House of the Rising Sun?

The song uses Am, C, D, F, and E — all played as arpeggios rather than strummed chords. The core progression is Am–C–D–F.

Is House of the Rising Sun fingerpicked or strummed?

It is fingerpicked/arpeggiated — each chord is broken into individual string notes rather than strummed. This is key to the song’s characteristic sound.

What key is House of the Rising Sun in?

The song is in A Minor, using chords Am, C, D, F, and E. No capo is needed.

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