Here are the common chords for "Somewhere Over the Rainbow," especially the
popular Israel Kamakawiwoʻole version, which is often played on ukulele or
guitar: Chords used:
C, Em, F, G, Am, and sometimes E7 for a nice color. Basic chord progression
example:
C Em
Somewhere over the rainbow
F C
Way up high
F C
And the dreams that you dreamed of
G Am F
Once in a lullaby
C Em
Somewhere over the rainbow
F C
Bluebirds fly
F C
And the dreams that you dreamed of
G Am F
Dreams really do come true
Bridge:
C
Someday I'll wish upon a star
Em Am F
Wake up where the clouds are far behind me
C
Where trouble melts like lemon drops
Em Am F
High above the chimney tops, that's where you'll find me
Outro repeats similar chords as above. This progression and these chords are simple and widely used for playing the song on ukulele or guitar
. For guitar players, a capo on the 5th fret is often used to match the key of the original recording by Israel Kamakawiwoʻole
. If you want the more traditional Judy Garland version, it uses some additional chords like Dm7, G7, Fm, and variations, but the core chords remain similar (C, Am, Em, F, G)
. These chords are enough to play the full song with the familiar melody and accompaniment. Let me know if you want the full chord sheet or specific fingerings!
