Music Tutorial
Chords to the Macarena
Learn to play the Macarena on guitar, piano, or ukulele with easy chord progressions and short tutorials for each instrument.
A♭ Major
Original Key
103 BPM
Tempo
4/4
Time Signature
4 Chords
Total Progression
The Macarena uses a simple four-chord progression that repeats through the whole song, which makes it a good first song for beginners on guitar, piano, or ukulele. To sing along while you play, keep the Macarena lyrics in English open in another tab. The Spanish original is further down the same page.
Essential Information
- •Original Key: A♭ Major (can be challenging for beginners)
- •Relative Minor: F Minor (great for duet arrangements)
- •Rhythm Style: Latin/Cuban Jazz influenced
- •Strumming Pattern: Down-Down-Up-Up-Down-Up (repeat)
Macarena Chord Progressions
The Macarena uses a simple four-chord progression that repeats throughout. We'll show you the original key and easier alternatives for different skill levels.
A♭ Major (Original)
OriginalProgression:
Chord Notes:
C Major
EasyProgression:
Chord Notes:
G Major
EasyProgression:
Chord Notes:
How to Play The Macarena on Guitar
The guitar is probably the most popular instrument for playing the Macarena. The rhythm is emblematic of Cuban Jazz, which fans of the genre will recognize immediately.
Recommended Capo Positions:
- Capo 1st fret: Play in G Major (easier chord shapes)
- Capo 4th fret: Play in E Major (very easy for beginners)
- No capo: Play in A♭ Major (original key, uses barre chords)
Strumming Tips:
- Emphasize the downbeats (1 and 3)
- Keep your wrist loose for the Latin feel
- Add palm muting for a percussive effect
- Practice with a metronome at 103 BPM
Sheet music: Professional guitar tabs and sheet music are available from licensed music publishers for around $5. For free options, check out community covers and tutorials on YouTube.
How to Play the Macarena on Piano
The piano arrangement of the Macarena can be as simple or complex as you make it. Beginners can stick to block chords while advanced players can add Latin rhythms and embellishments.
Piano Playing Tips:
- Left hand: Play root notes or octaves on the beat
- Right hand: Play chords with a syncopated rhythm
- Add grace notes and rolls for Latin flavor
- Consider playing in C Major if A♭ is too difficult
Rhythm Pattern:
Try this pattern: Play the chord on beat 1, rest on 2, play on the "and" of 2, play on 3, rest on 4, play on the "and" of 4. This creates the characteristic Latin syncopation.
For more detail, see our guide onhow to play the Macarena on piano, including finger positions and practice exercises.
Learn to Play The Macarena on Ukulele
The ukulele is the easiest way into this song. Its four strings and simple chord shapes make the progression quick to learn.
Ukulele Advantages:
- Easier chord shapes than guitar
- Natural bright tone suits the song's energy
- Portable, so you can bring it to parties
- Great for sing-alongs
Recommended Key:
Play in C Major (C-G-F-G) for the easiest chord shapes on ukulele.
Learn the ukulele version with ourcomplete Macarena ukulele tutorial, with chord fingerings and a strumming pattern.
Practice Tips for All Instruments
Start Slow
Begin at 70-80 BPM and gradually work up to the full 103 BPM tempo.
Focus on Rhythm
The Latin rhythm is key. Practice the strumming pattern without chords first.
Loop the Progression
Practice the 4-chord loop continuously until smooth transitions become automatic.
Play Along
Once comfortable, play along with the original recording for timing practice.
Dance While You Play
Once you have the chords down, learn the dance moves that go with them.
Learn the Macarena DanceQuick Reference Card
Original: A♭ - E♭ - D♭ - E♭
Easy (C): C - G - F - G
Easy (G): G - D - C - D
Tempo: 103 BPM
Time: 4/4