“How to Play Let It Be by The Beatles”

Few songs are as timeless and instantly recognizable as Let It Be by The Beatles. Released in 1970, this soulful ballad penned by Paul McCartney has become a staple for aspiring guitarists thanks to its simple chord structure, heartfelt lyrics, and emotional resonance. In this tutorial, we’ll break down how to play Let It Be on acoustic guitar, including the chord progression, strumming pattern, and tips to make it sound smooth and natural—even if you’re just getting started.

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 Let It Be – The Beatles
Written by Paul McCartney & John Lennon
Key: C Major
Tempo: ~72 BPM
Strumming: Down-down-up-up-down-up (optional)

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[Intro]
C  G  Am  F
C  G  F  C

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[Verse 1]
C            G             Am             F
When I find myself in times of trouble, Mother Mary comes to me
C       G             F       C
Speaking words of wisdom, let it be
C               G            Am                  F
And in my hour of darkness, she is standing right in front of me
C       G             F       C
Speaking words of wisdom, let it be

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[Chorus]
Am       G       F       C
Let it be, let it be, let it be, let it be
C             G             F       C
Whisper words of wisdom, let it be

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[Verse 2]
C             G              Am              F
And when the broken-hearted people living in the world agree
C       G             F       C
There will be an answer, let it be
C           G                Am                F
For though they may be parted, there is still a chance that they will see
C       G             F       C
There will be an answer, let it be

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[Chorus]
Am       G       F       C
Let it be, let it be, let it be, let it be
C             G             F       C
Yeah, there will be an answer, let it be
Am       G       F       C
Let it be, let it be, let it be, let it be
C             G             F       C
Whisper words of wisdom, let it be

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[Guitar Solo]
(Play chords as in verse)
C  G  Am  F
C  G  F  C

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[Verse 3]
C            G             Am                 F
And when the night is cloudy, there is still a light that shines on me
C       G             F       C
Shine until tomorrow, let it be
C              G              Am                F
I wake up to the sound of music, Mother Mary comes to me
C       G             F       C
Speaking words of wisdom, let it be

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[Chorus – repeat & fade]
Am       G       F       C
Let it be, let it be, let it be, let it be
C             G             F       C
There will be an answer, let it be…

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Once you’re confident playing Let It Be in the original key of C major, try transposing it to better suit your vocal range or to create a different mood. Moving it to G major (G–D–Em–C) is ideal for beginners, while A major gives it a brighter feel. Use a capo to keep the chord shapes simple—place it on the 5th fret and play G shapes to remain in C, or experiment with other capo positions to find your perfect sound. Transposing is not only a great way to personalize your performance, but also an excellent way to improve your overall musical flexibility.

This is a simplified version that is great to play with friends around a campfire or at a solo acoustic gig. It never fails to be popular with every crowd….