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Futile Devices
The story behind the song
"Futile Devices" captures the quiet intimacy of feeling completely safe with another person, where words become unnecessary or even "futile devices." It speaks to a connection so deep that touch and presence are enough, like the "metal vibrates underneath your fingers." This song, from Sufjan Stevens' album The Age of Adz, was later featured in the film Call Me by Your Name, resonating with themes of tender, unspoken affection. It plays like a hushed confession of love, finding profundity in simplicity.
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Futile Devices
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Futile Devices
by Sufjan Stevens
Chords in this song · guitar
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Lyrics and compositions © their respective songwriters and publishers. Free for personal practice.
About Futile Devices Chords by Sufjan Stevens
Learn how to play Futile Devices by Sufjan Stevens with free guitar chords, lyrics, and interactive chord diagrams. Search for “Futile Devices chords”, “Futile Devices guitar chords”, or “Sufjan Stevens Futile Devices 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 Futile Devices chords and for experienced players who want accurate Futile Devices lyrics and chords in one place. Common chords in this song include Bbm7, Bbm7/Eb, Eb7, Ab, Eb, Db.
FAQ — Futile Devices by Sufjan Stevens
How do I play "Futile Devices" by Sufjan Stevens on guitar?
Open the free chords for "Futile Devices" by Sufjan Stevens 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 "Futile Devices" by Sufjan Stevens free?
Yes. The chords for "Futile Devices" by Sufjan Stevens are 100% free on Free Chord Book — no sign-up required.
Can I transpose "Futile Devices" to a different key?
Yes. Use the transpose buttons on the song page to shift "Futile Devices" up or down by half-steps so it matches your vocal range or capo position.
Can I see chord diagrams for "Futile Devices"?
Yes. Tap any chord in "Futile Devices" to instantly see an interactive guitar chord diagram with alternate fingerings.
Is "Futile Devices" easy to play on guitar?
Many players learn "Futile Devices" by Sufjan Stevens with our free chords. Use transpose and chord diagrams to simplify tricky shapes, and browse related songs by Sufjan Stevens below.
What key is "Futile Devices" in?
The chords for "Futile Devices" show the original chord names (including Bbm7, Bbm7/Eb, Eb7, Ab, Eb, Db). Use transpose to move the song into any key that fits your voice or capo.