Lodi Guitar Chords

Chords, Key & Strumming Pattern

Chords Used

G C D F#m Em A# A E

Strumming Pattern

D DU UDU

The D DU UDU strum suits Lodi's driving rock energy. Note that the Verse features individual notes on G and F# before landing on Em — play those notes (not full chord strums) for authenticity. The outro modulates to A major, so watch for that key shift.

About This Song

Lodi is a 1969 rock classic by Creedence Clearwater Revival (CCR), written by John Fogerty. It tells the story of a travelling musician stuck in a small town — a quintessential piece of American rock storytelling. The song modulates interestingly: beginning in G major and shifting to A major in the outro, making it a great intermediate study in key changes and single-note riffs within chord progressions.

Song Arrangement — Chord Chart

Intro

G / C / G / D / C / G

Verse

G / G / C / G /    G F# / Em / C / D    G F# / Em / C / G
(G and F# play as single notes)

Oh Lord

G / D / ~C / G

Break

G / C / G / D / C / G

Outro

A A / D / A    A / F#m / D / E    A / E / -D / A

Frequently Asked Questions

What key is Lodi by CCR in?

Lodi starts in G major and modulates to A major in the outro section.

How many chords does Lodi use?

Lodi uses 8 chords: G, C, D, F#m, Em, A#, A, and E across all sections.

Does Lodi need a capo?

No capo is required for Lodi. The song is played in open position.

What is the riff in the Lodi verse?

The verse features individual single notes on G and F# (played as notes, not strummed chords) before resolving to Em. This is noted in the chord sheet.