What Are Some Common Chord Progressions Used In Popular Music?

When it comes to popular music, you’ll often find yourself tapping your foot to catchy tunes that seem to effortlessly flow from one chord to another. But have you ever wondered what makes these chord progressions so appealing? In this article, we’ll explore some of the most common chord progressions used in popular music and uncover the secrets behind their irresistible melodies. So get ready to unlock the key to those toe-tapping hits and discover the magic behind the music!

Basic Major Chord Progressions

I-IV-V Progression

The I-IV-V chord progression is one of the most commonly used progressions in popular music. It is often found in rock, blues, and country genres. In this progression, the chords used are the tonic (I), the subdominant (IV), and the dominant (V). For example, if you are playing in the key of C, the chords used would be C, F, and G. This progression provides a strong and uplifting sound, making it a favorite among musicians.

I-V-VI-IV Progression

Another popular major chord progression is the I-V-VI-IV progression. This progression has been used in countless hit songs across various genres, including pop, rock, and even hip hop. The chords used in this progression are the tonic (I), the dominant (V), the submediant (VI), and the subdominant (IV). For example, in the key of G, the chords used would be G, D, Em, and C. This progression creates a catchy and memorable melody, making it perfect for creating radio-friendly pop tunes.

I-IV-IV-V Progression

The I-IV-IV-V progression is a variation of the classic I-IV-V progression. This progression is commonly used in rock, folk, and country music. Instead of using the dominant (V) chord, this progression repeats the subdominant (IV) chord. For example, in the key of D, the chords used would be D, G, G, and A. This variation adds a slight twist to the traditional progression, giving it a unique and distinct sound.

Basic Minor Chord Progressions

I-VI-IV-V Progression

The I-VI-IV-V progression is a popular minor chord progression found in many different musical genres, including pop, rock, and R&B. This progression is often associated with emotional and melancholic songs. The chords used in this progression are the tonic (I), the submediant (VI), the subdominant (IV), and the dominant (V). For example, in the key of A minor, the chords used would be Am, F, Dm, and E. This progression creates a sense of tension and resolution, allowing for songs with deep emotional impact.

VI-IV-I-V Progression

The VI-IV-I-V progression is another commonly used minor chord progression. It is often found in pop, rock, and alternative music. In this progression, the chords used are the submediant (VI), the subdominant (IV), the tonic (I), and the dominant (V). For example, in the key of E minor, the chords used would be C, Am, Em, and B7. This progression has a melancholic and introspective feel, making it suitable for creating heartfelt and introspective songs.

I-III-VI-VII Progression

The I-III-VI-VII progression is a minor chord progression that is commonly used in pop and EDM genres. It is often referred to as the “pop punk progression” due to its association with bands in that genre. The chords used in this progression are the tonic (I), the mediant (III), the submediant (VI), and the leading tone (VII). For example, in the key of D minor, the chords used would be Dm, F, Bb, and C. This progression has a catchy and energetic sound, making it ideal for creating upbeat and catchy pop songs.

Modal Chord Progressions

I-II-III-IV Progression

The I-II-III-IV progression is a modal chord progression commonly used in jazz and fusion music. This progression is based on the Dorian mode, which gives it a unique and sophisticated sound. The chords used in this progression are the tonic (I), the supertonic (II), the mediant (III), and the subdominant (IV). For example, in the key of E Dorian, the chords used would be Em, F#m, G, and Am. This progression allows for a more complex and harmonically rich musical landscape.

I-IV-V-IV Progression

The I-IV-V-IV progression is another modal chord progression commonly used in jazz and blues music. This progression is often associated with a laid-back and bluesy feel. The chords used in this progression are the tonic (I), the subdominant (IV), the dominant (V), and the subdominant (IV) again. For example, in the key of A major, the chords used would be A, D, E, and D. This progression provides a great platform for improvisation and allows for the exploration of different melodic ideas.

II-IV-I-V Progression

The II-IV-I-V progression is a modal chord progression frequently used in jazz, Latin, and funk genres. This progression is based on the Mixolydian mode, which gives it a distinct and groovy sound. The chords used in this progression are the supertonic (II), the subdominant (IV), the tonic (I), and the dominant (V). For example, in the key of G Mixolydian, the chords used would be Am, C, G, and D. This progression has a fun and energetic feel, making it perfect for creating lively and danceable music.

Blues Chord Progressions

12-Bar Blues Progression

The 12-bar blues progression is one of the most iconic chord progressions in the blues genre. It is characterized by its simple yet powerful structure. This progression follows a specific pattern and consists of three primary chords: the tonic (I), the subdominant (IV), and the dominant (V). For example, in the key of E, the chords used would be E, A, and B. The 12-bar blues progression provides a solid foundation for blues musicians to showcase their improvisational skills and express their emotions through their playing.

8-Bar Blues Progression

The 8-bar blues progression is a shorter variation of the 12-bar blues progression. It is commonly used in blues and rock music. This progression consists of two repetitions of the primary chords: the tonic (I), the subdominant (IV), and the dominant (V). For example, in the key of C, the chords used would be C, F, and G. The 8-bar blues progression allows for a more concise and dynamic musical expression, making it a popular choice for shorter blues compositions.

16-Bar Blues Progression

The 16-bar blues progression is a longer variation of the 12-bar blues progression. It is often used in jazz and blues music. This progression expands on the traditional structure by adding extra measures and additional chord changes. The chords used in this progression can vary, but they typically include the tonic (I), the subdominant (IV), and the dominant (V), along with other secondary dominant and subdominant chords. The 16-bar blues progression allows for greater complexity and variety in blues compositions, providing musicians with a wider range of melodic and harmonic possibilities.

Jazz Chord Progressions

II-V-I Progression

The II-V-I progression is one of the most important chord progressions in jazz music. It is used extensively in jazz standards and improvisation. This progression consists of three primary chords: the supertonic (II), the dominant (V), and the tonic (I). For example, in the key of C, the chords used would be Dm, G7, and C. The II-V-I progression provides a strong sense of resolution and serves as a foundation for creating complex and harmonically rich jazz compositions.

I-vi-ii-V Progression

The I-vi-ii-V progression is another essential chord progression in jazz music. It is commonly used in jazz standards and is often referred to as the “Gospel progression” due to its use in gospel music as well. This progression consists of the tonic (I), the submediant (vi), the subdominant (ii), and the dominant (V). For example, in the key of F, the chords used would be F, Dm, Gm, and C. The I-vi-ii-V progression has a smooth and pleasing sound and allows for melodic and harmonic variations in jazz improvisation.

I-III-VI-ii-V Progression

The I-III-VI-ii-V progression is a more complex jazz chord progression that adds additional harmonies and creates a more intricate musical landscape. This progression consists of the tonic (I), the mediant (III), the submediant (VI), the subdominant (ii), and the dominant (V). For example, in the key of Bb, the chords used would be Bb, D, Gm, Cm, and F7. The I-III-VI-ii-V progression allows for sophisticated jazz compositions and offers endless possibilities for creative expression and improvisation.

Pop Chord Progressions

I-V-vi-IV Progression

The I-V-vi-IV progression is one of the most prevalent chord progressions in pop music. It is often referred to as the “four-chord progression” due to its simplicity and ubiquity in popular songs. This progression consists of the tonic (I), the dominant (V), the submediant (vi), and the subdominant (IV). For example, in the key of G, the chords used would be G, D, Em, and C. The I-V-vi-IV progression is catchy and easy to remember, making it a favorite among songwriters for creating infectious pop melodies.

I-V-IV Progression

The I-V-IV progression is another popular chord progression in pop music. It is often found in rock, country, and folk genres. This progression consists of the tonic (I), the dominant (V), and the subdominant (IV). For example, in the key of A, the chords used would be A, E, and D. The I-V-IV progression provides a solid and straightforward foundation for creating melodic and singable pop songs.

I-V-vi-iii-IV-I Progression

The I-V-vi-iii-IV-I progression is a more complex pop chord progression that adds an additional chord to the classic I-V-vi-IV progression. This progression offers a more intricate and unique sound while still maintaining a catchy and memorable melody. The chords used in this progression are the tonic (I), the dominant (V), the submediant (vi), the mediant (iii), and the subdominant (IV). For example, in the key of C, the chords used would be C, G, Am, Em, F, and C. The I-V-vi-iii-IV-I progression allows for versatility in pop songwriting, allowing musicians to create songs that are both memorable and musically interesting.

Rock Chord Progressions

I-IV-V Progression

The I-IV-V progression is a staple in rock music and is often associated with classic rock and blues genres. This progression is simple yet powerful, providing a strong and energetic foundation for rock compositions. The chords used in this progression are the tonic (I), the subdominant (IV), and the dominant (V). For example, in the key of E, the chords used would be E, A, and B. The I-IV-V progression is versatile and can be adapted to various rock subgenres, making it a go-to choice for many rock musicians.

I-IV-V-IV Progression

The I-IV-V-IV progression is a variation of the classic I-IV-V progression. It adds an additional subdominant (IV) chord, resulting in a more expansive and dynamic sound. This progression is commonly used in rock, blues, and country music. For example, in the key of G, the chords used would be G, C, D, and C. The I-IV-V-IV progression provides a sense of tension and release, allowing musicians to create powerful and memorable rock melodies.

I-bVII-IV Progression

The I-bVII-IV progression is a classic rock chord progression that adds a unique and rebellious sound to rock compositions. This progression is often associated with the rock subgenre of punk and punk-inspired music. The chords used in this progression are the tonic (I), the lowered subtonic (bVII), and the subdominant (IV). For example, in the key of A, the chords used would be A, G, and D. The I-bVII-IV progression has a raw and aggressive feel, making it ideal for creating high-energy and rebellious rock songs.

Country Chord Progressions

I-IV-V Progression

The I-IV-V progression is a cornerstone of country music and reflects the genre’s roots in folk and blues. This progression provides a solid and catchy foundation for country compositions. The chords used in this progression are the tonic (I), the subdominant (IV), and the dominant (V). For example, in the key of D, the chords used would be D, G, and A. The I-IV-V progression is versatile and can be adapted to different country subgenres, from traditional to modern country.

I-V-IV Progression

The I-V-IV progression, also known as the “three-chord trick,” is another commonly used chord progression in country music. This progression provides a straightforward and recognizable structure for country songs. The chords used in this progression are the tonic (I), the dominant (V), and the subdominant (IV). For example, in the key of C, the chords used would be C, G, and F. The I-V-IV progression allows for a variety of musical expressions within the country genre, showcasing heartfelt lyrics and soulful melodies.

I-IV-I-V Progression

The I-IV-I-V progression is a variation of the classic I-IV-V progression commonly found in country music. This progression adds an additional tonic (I) and dominant (V) chord, resulting in a more expansive and dynamic sound. For example, in the key of G, the chords used would be G, C, G, and D. The I-IV-I-V progression allows for greater movement and variation within a country song, providing opportunities for musicians to explore different melodic and harmonic possibilities.

R&B Chord Progressions

I-VI-IV-V Progression

The I-VI-IV-V progression is one of the most commonly used chord progressions in R&B music. This progression provides a smooth and soulful foundation for R&B compositions. The chords used in this progression are the tonic (I), the submediant (VI), the subdominant (IV), and the dominant (V). For example, in the key of C, the chords used would be C, Am, F, and G. The I-VI-IV-V progression allows R&B musicians to create melodic and harmonically rich songs that evoke emotions and showcase vocal prowess.

I-IV-V Progression

The I-IV-V progression is another frequently used chord progression in R&B music. It is characterized by its simplicity and versatility, making it suitable for a variety of R&B subgenres. The chords used in this progression are the tonic (I), the subdominant (IV), and the dominant (V). For example, in the key of D, the chords used would be D, G, and A. The I-IV-V progression provides a solid and familiar structure for R&B compositions, allowing for rhythmic and melodic exploration.

I-IV-V-bVII Progression

The I-IV-V-bVII progression is a variation of the classic I-IV-V progression often used in R&B music. It adds a flattened seventh (bVII) chord to create a unique and soulful sound. For example, in the key of E, the chords used would be E, A, B, and D. The I-IV-V-bVII progression allows R&B musicians to infuse their compositions with a touch of blues and gospel, creating a rich and emotionally charged musical landscape.

Funk Chord Progressions

I-IV Progression

The I-IV progression is a simple yet iconic chord progression often associated with funk music. This progression provides a funky and groovy foundation for funk compositions. The chords used in this progression are the tonic (I) and the subdominant (IV). For example, in the key of C, the chords used would be C and F. The I-IV progression allows for a tight and rhythmic interplay between the various instruments in a funk band, creating a highly infectious and danceable groove.

I-IV-vi-V Progression

The I-IV-vi-V progression is another popular chord progression in funk music. It adds a minor submediant (vi) chord to create a unique and soulful sound. The chords used in this progression are the tonic (I), the subdominant (IV), the submediant (vi), and the dominant (V). For example, in the key of G, the chords used would be G, C, Em, and D. The I-IV-vi-V progression allows for a diverse range of funky and melodic possibilities, making it a favorite among funk musicians.

I-bVII-IV Progression

The I-bVII-IV progression is a classic chord progression often found in funk and rock music. It adds a dominant (bVII) chord to create a gritty and energetic sound. For example, in the key of A, the chords used would be A, G, and D. The I-bVII-IV progression provides a powerful and driving basis for funk compositions, allowing musicians to create highly rhythmic and groove-oriented music.