How to Play House of the Rising Sun on Guitar: The Chord Progression, Strumming and a Simple Arrangement
House of the Rising Sun is a classic beginner song built on a repeating four-chord pattern. Here is the progression, a simple arrangement, and how to practise it.
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In this guide
House of the Rising Sun is one of the best songs for beginner guitarists. The chord progression repeats, the changes are slow enough to practise, and the song teaches you a rhythm that works in many other folk and rock pieces. This guide covers the progression, a simple arrangement, and how to practise the trickiest part, the F chord.
The progression
The song is built on a repeating pattern of four chords: Am, C, D and F. Most arrangements play the pattern like this:
- Am, then C, then D, then F.
- Then Am, C, then E (sometimes played as E major or E7 for a stronger ending).
Learn the order first, before you worry about rhythm. When you can name each chord as it comes, the song starts to feel like a single phrase rather than a list of shapes.
The F chord
F is the chord most beginners struggle with, because it is a barre chord. You do not need to play the full barre straight away. Here are two easier options:
- Mini F: a short shape on the top four strings. Use the mini F diagram below, and keep your index finger arched across the strings at the first fret.
- Simplified F: leave out the top string and play the shape you can hold comfortably, aiming for a clean sound on the middle strings.
Once F sounds clean, you can move back to the full version. Many players find that the song sounds better once the F is solid, so take your time with it.
A simple arrangement
You do not need a complicated pattern to play this song. Try this approach:
- Pick out the lowest strings on each chord, one at a time, in a steady pattern.
- Keep the rhythm even. The song is slow, so it should feel relaxed.
- Let each chord ring a little before the next one starts.
If picking is too much at first, a gentle strum with the same timing works well. Once you are comfortable, add the picking pattern for a richer sound.
Practice plan
- Week one: Practise the four chords in order, at a slow tempo, with a steady count.
- Week two: Work on the F chord, using the easier version until it sounds clean.
- Week three: Play the whole progression through, adding the rhythm one section at a time.
Common mistakes
- Rushing the changes. The song is slow. If your changes sound rushed, slow down until each chord rings clearly.
- Muting the strings. Check that your fingers are arched so each string rings when you play it.
- Losing the count. Tap your foot, or count out loud, so the rhythm stays even.
Get your first song under your fingers this week
Fretwork builds the chord changes and strumming you need for songs like these, one short lesson at a time. Stages 0 and 1 are free with no card.
Stuck on something?
If F keeps buzzing, switch to the easier version for a few days, then return to the full shape. Most F problems come from one finger pressing too flat. Adjust that finger first.
Frequently asked questions
What chords are in House of the Rising Sun?
The main progression uses Am, C, D and F, with the familiar pattern repeating through the verses. Many versions also use E at the end of the phrase. Learning the progression in order is the best place to start.
Is House of the Rising Sun a good song for beginners?
Yes. It uses slow changes, familiar open chords and a clear rhythm. The F chord can be hard at first, so you can use an easier version of F while you build up to it.
How do I make House of the Rising Sun sound good on acoustic guitar?
Use a light, steady pattern and let the chords ring between phrases. Many players use a simple picking pattern rather than strumming, which gives the song its feel. Start with a slow tempo and keep the rhythm even.
How long does it take to learn?
With a few weeks of short daily practice, most beginners can play the progression all the way through. The F chord and smooth changes usually take the most time.
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