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Smile
The story behind the song
This song encourages you to keep your spirits up, even when your heart is aching. It suggests that by lighting up your face with gladness and simply smiling, you will get by and find a bright tomorrow. Originally an instrumental theme for Charlie Chaplin's 1936 film Modern Times, Chaplin composed the melody, drawing inspiration from Puccini's opera Tosca. Lyrics were later added in 1954 by John Turner and Geoffrey Parsons, building on the film's themes of resilience. At its heart, it's a tender reminder to find hope and project optimism through life's struggles.
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Chord Book
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Smile
by Charlie Chaplin
Chords in this song · guitar
About Smile Chords by Charlie Chaplin
Learn how to play Smile by Charlie Chaplin with free guitar chords, lyrics, and interactive chord diagrams. Search for “Smile chords”, “Smile guitar chords”, or “Charlie Chaplin Smile chords” and you will find this page — transpose to any key, tap chords for diagrams, and use auto-scroll while you play. Perfect for beginners looking for easy Smile chords and for experienced players who want accurate Smile lyrics and chords in one place. Common chords in this song include C, Em, Am, Am7, Dm, C#dim.
FAQ — Smile by Charlie Chaplin
How do I play "Smile" by Charlie Chaplin on guitar?
Open the free chords for "Smile" by Charlie Chaplin on Free Chord Book. Tap any chord to see its diagram, use transpose to change the key, and turn on auto-scroll to play hands-free.
Are the chords for "Smile" by Charlie Chaplin free?
Yes. The chords for "Smile" by Charlie Chaplin are 100% free on Free Chord Book — no sign-up required.
Can I transpose "Smile" to a different key?
Yes. Use the transpose buttons on the song page to shift "Smile" up or down by half-steps so it matches your vocal range or capo position.
Can I see chord diagrams for "Smile"?
Yes. Tap any chord in "Smile" to instantly see an interactive guitar chord diagram with alternate fingerings.
Is "Smile" easy to play on guitar?
Many players learn "Smile" by Charlie Chaplin with our free chords. Use transpose and chord diagrams to simplify tricky shapes, and browse related songs by Charlie Chaplin below.
What key is "Smile" in?
The chords for "Smile" show the original chord names (including C, Em, Am, Am7, Dm, C#dim). Use transpose to move the song into any key that fits your voice or capo.





















