The National Anthem

Chords
4.29 votes
15
Original
Lyrics & ChordsClick chords to see diagrams
RADIOHEAD- The National Anthem (Kid A)
i.e A2 means hit the A note in section 2.
*middle C  
will put the string and fret number.
So A2 (G14) means the piano is the A key in section 2 and the note
for the guitar would be played on the G string on the
14th fret.
Here is the main bass riff played over and over throughout the song.
D---------------------------------------------------------------------|
A--9----------------9-----------------8--------------7----------------|
E-----10---10--10------10--10--10-------10--10--10------10--10--10-10-|
the main riff is played. Any note under that number shows where and when
1 bass riff starts up
2
D2(A5)
4
A3(G14)
6
Bb3(G15)
7
A3(G14) G3(G12)
8
F#3(G11)
9
D3(G7)
10
Bb2(G3) G2(G-open)
11
F#2(D4) A2(G2)
12
F2(D3) A2(G2) E2(D2)
13
D2(D-open) A3(G14)
14
Bb3(G15) G3(G12)
15
A3(G14) F#3(G11)
16
Bb3(G15) G3(G12)
17
A3(G14) F#3(G11)
18
F3(G10)
19
E3(G9)
20 Verse 1
everyone everyone
21
22
23
24
A3(G14) F#3(G11)
25
Bb3(G15) G3(G12)
26
A3(G14) F#3(G11)
27
Bb3(G15) G3(G12)
28 Verse 2
and everyone everyone is
29
30
31
All chords in this song (20)

The story behind the song

"The National Anthem" is built around a repeating bassline, originally written by Thom Yorke when he was 16. The song evolved from an idea considered for an earlier album, eventually finding its place on Kid A in 2000. It features a horn section playing in a free jazz style, inspired by the "organised chaos" of jazz musician Charles Mingus, creating a distinctive and experimental sound. This blend of structured bass and improvisational brass gives the song a feeling of intense, almost chaotic energy.

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About The National Anthem Chords by Radiohead

Learn how to play The National Anthem by Radiohead with free guitar chords, lyrics, and interactive chord diagrams. Search for “The National Anthem chords”, “The National Anthem guitar chords”, or “Radiohead The National Anthem 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 The National Anthem chords and for experienced players who want accurate The National Anthem lyrics and chords in one place. Common chords in this song include A, C, G, D, E, D2.

FAQ — The National Anthem by Radiohead

How do I play "The National Anthem" by Radiohead on guitar?

Open the free chords for "The National Anthem" by Radiohead 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 "The National Anthem" by Radiohead free?

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Can I transpose "The National Anthem" to a different key?

Yes. Use the transpose buttons on the song page to shift "The National Anthem" up or down by half-steps so it matches your vocal range or capo position.

Can I see chord diagrams for "The National Anthem"?

Yes. Tap any chord in "The National Anthem" to instantly see an interactive guitar chord diagram with alternate fingerings.

Is "The National Anthem" easy to play on guitar?

Many players learn "The National Anthem" by Radiohead with our free chords. Use transpose and chord diagrams to simplify tricky shapes, and browse related songs by Radiohead below.

What key is "The National Anthem" in?

The chords for "The National Anthem" show the original chord names (including A, C, G, D, E, D2). Use transpose to move the song into any key that fits your voice or capo.