Spoonful by Howlin' Wolf
Key: Em · 117 BPM · 4/4
Spoonful by Howlin' Wolf sits in Em, giving it a darker, more unresolved color than a major-key song would have. Rather than one of the handful of progressions that show up again and again across pop and rock, it settles into its own 2-chord loop — Em-E — repeating with its own internal logic instead of borrowing a familiar shape. At 117 BPM, it moves at a moderate, driving pace.
The progression
This song cycles a 2-chord progression in Em: Em-E. 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 |
| Capo 2 | Dm | Dm-D |
| Capo 7 | Am | Am-A |
Chord chart
- 0:00 Em
- 0:02 E7
- 0:10 Em
- 0:26 E7
- 0:28 Em
- 0:30 E7
- 0:44 Em
- 0:58 E7
- 1:00 Em
- 1:14 E7
- 1:16 Em
- 1:26 E7
- 2:11 Em
Frequently asked questions
What key is Spoonful in?
Spoonful is in Em.
What chords does Spoonful use?
The core of Spoonful cycles through Em, E (2 chords).
What is the tempo of Spoonful?
Spoonful runs at 117 BPM in 4/4 time.
What chord progression does Spoonful use?
Spoonful doesn't follow one of the common named progressions — it cycles its own 2-chord loop: Em-E.
What capo should I use for Spoonful?
No capo needed — Em already sits in standard open-chord shapes.