Don't Stop Believin'

How to play Don't Stop Believin' by Journey on guitar

This song is a great one to learn because the progression feels instantly familiar and uplifting, and at this tempo you can settle into a steady groove without rushing. You get that classic singalong energy right away, so it feels rewarding even at a beginner level.

You can lean on the open shapes E and A, but you will also need to handle barre shapes like B and C#m, which ask for cleaner finger pressure and smoother transitions. The main change to watch is the opening move from E to B to C#m to A, since that shift sets the pace for the rest of the song.

Start by looping E - B - C#m - A slowly until the shapes feel automatic, then add the rest of the progression in the same relaxed pulse. Once your changes are clean, bring it up toward full tempo and keep your strumming even so the song stays driving and confident.

Use the play-along above to follow each chord change in time with the music, or learn the shapes first with the chord diagrams below.