The Distance by Cake
Key: Em · 185 BPM · 4/4
The Distance by Cake sits in Em, giving it a darker, more unresolved color than a major-key song would have. Its chords cycle through the i-iv-V progression — harmonic minor with strong dominant resolution (very common): Em-E-B. At 185 BPM, it moves at a fast, high-energy pace.
The progression
This song follows the i-iv-V progression (Harmonic minor with strong dominant resolution (very common)) in Em. Chords are automatically detected — if something looks off, let us know.
Play it in other keys
| Capo | Shape key | Chords to play |
|---|---|---|
| No capo | Em | Em-E-B |
| Capo 2 | Dm | Dm-D-A |
| Capo 7 | Am | Am-A-E |
Chord chart
- 0:06 Em
- 0:17 E7
- 0:26 Em7
- 0:30 Em
- 0:37 Em7
- 0:41 E7
- 1:00 B7
- 1:02 Em
- 1:06 B7
- 1:07 Em7
- 1:27 Em
- 1:51 E7
- 2:05 B7
- 2:08 E7
- 2:11 B7
- 2:13 E7
- 2:15 Em
- 2:16 B7
- 2:19 E7
- 2:21 B7
- 2:24 Em7
- 2:56 Em
Frequently asked questions
What key is The Distance in?
The Distance is in Em.
What chords does The Distance use?
The core of The Distance cycles through Em, E, B (3 chords).
What is the tempo of The Distance?
The Distance runs at 185 BPM in 4/4 time.
What chord progression does The Distance use?
The Distance follows the i-iv-V progression. It's a harmonic minor with strong dominant resolution (very common).
What capo should I use for The Distance?
No capo needed — Em already sits in standard open-chord shapes.