Chord Progressions

Mastering the art of writing a pop song can feel like a daunting task, almost as if it’s a mystery known only to seasoned songwriters and producers. But, like any intricate recipe, once you understand the essential ingredients of a hit song, breaking down its structure becomes much easier. Strip away the advanced production techniques and sparkling vocals, and you’ll see that many pop songs rely on similar structures, melodic hooks, and chord progressions.

In this guide, we’ll focus on some of the most popular chord progressions commonly found in pop music. These chords are instantly recognizable, and once you get the hang of them, plus add a touch of creativity, you’ll be able to craft your own catchy tunes.

For those looking for inspiration with chords, Native Instruments products offer a wide variety of pre-set chord patterns to get started. For instance, MASCHINE’s Chord Mode provides an easy way to explore interesting harmonic sequences. Many Native Instruments tools come equipped with ready-to-use chords and riffs, making it easy to dive right in. Whether you’re looking for guitar-based progressions, keyboard harmonies, or string arrangements, you’ll find the right chords and motifs to spark ideas for your song.

In our audio examples, we used IGNITION KEYS, but you can easily join in by using your own instruments or some free music-making tools mentioned in Max Tundra’s pop music toolkit.

What Are Chord Progressions?

A chord progression, or harmonic sequence, is a series of chords that creates harmony and serves as the foundation for a melody. In Western music, chord progressions have played a key role since the classical era, continuing through to the present day as an essential part of popular genres like pop, rock, jazz, and blues. In these styles, chord progressions help define the character and sound of a piece, supporting its melodic and rhythmic elements.

In tonal music, chord progressions help establish the key, or tonality, of a piece. For example, one common progression, like IV-vi-IV, is typically notated in Roman numerals in classical music theory, which allows musicians to recognize each chord’s function regardless of key. In popular music, these progressions are often named by chord labels alone. For instance, the same progression in the key of E♭ major would be written as E♭ major – B♭ major – C minor – A♭ major.

In rock and blues, musicians also often use Roman numerals to denote chord progressions, making it easier to transpose a song into any key. For instance, a 12-bar blues progression is usually built around the I, IV, and V chords, making it easy for a rhythm section or band to shift to the desired key on command. If the bandleader calls for this progression in the key of B♭ major, the chords would go: B♭ – B♭ – B♭ – B♭, E♭ – E♭ – B♭ – B♭, F – E♭ – B♭ – B♭.

The complexity of chord progressions varies by genre and era. Many pop and rock songs from the late 20th and early 21st centuries are built on relatively simple progressions, while jazz, especially bebop, often includes much more complex progressions, sometimes featuring up to 32 bars with multiple chord changes per bar. In contrast, funk is more groove- and rhythm-oriented, often revolving around a single chord throughout an entire piece, emphasizing rhythm over harmony.

Before You Start: Get Familiar with Chord Basics

Before diving into creating chord progressions, it’s essential to understand what chords are. A chord is a combination of three or more notes from a particular scale, played together to create a harmonious sound. Chords are named based on their root note and type, like major, minor, or seventh. For example, a C Major chord consists of the notes C, E, and G. When we talk about chord progressions, we mean a sequence of different chords played one after another. These progressions are often represented by Roman numerals, which indicate the intervals between chords and their relationship to each other. If you need a refresher on music theory basics, feel free to check out our guide on chord and harmony fundamentals.

Don’t worry if this all sounds a bit technical — we’ll be referencing well-known pop songs to help you hear these chords in action. We also recommend using Hooktheory and its TheoryTab database, where you can see chord visuals for popular songs and listen to them at the same time.

What Are Pop Chord Progressions?

Pop chord progressions are key to creating a hit song, supporting elements like heartfelt lyrics, memorable melodies, and catchy hooks. In pop music, chord progressions are typically simple, easy to recognize, and repetitive, which makes them highly memorable for listeners.

While you can theoretically combine chords in almost any order, that often leads to experimental-sounding music. Pop music, however, is crafted for a broad audience, so familiar and cohesive chord progressions work best. A great starting point is the circle of fifths, which offers progressions with smooth transitions between chords. Using predictable progressions from the circle makes the musical flow satisfying, as each chord naturally follows from the last.

Beyond the basics of the circle, there are many other ways to build impactful chord sequences. You’ll find that plenty of hit songs share similar chord progressions, but that hasn’t stopped artists from writing fresh tracks by adding new melodies and modern production to familiar chords.

Basics of Chord Progression Theory

Chords can be built on any note in a musical scale. The seven-note diatonic scale forms the basis for seven diatonic chords, where each scale degree provides the root for its own chord. For instance, a chord based on the note E could be major, minor, or diminished, depending on the desired effect. Chord progressions involve not only basic triads but also more complex chords with four or more notes, such as seventh chords and extended chords, where the function of each chord shifts depending on the context within the entire progression.

Diatonic and Chromatic Chords

Harmonizing a major scale typically results in three major chords based on the first, fourth, and fifth scale degrees. These chords are called the tonic (I), subdominant (IV), and dominant (V). They can harmonize every note in the scale and are frequently used in folk, traditional music, and rock, where they provide a solid foundation for simple melodies. A classic example is The Troggs’ song “Wild Thing,” which uses only the I, IV, and V chords.

The same major scale also includes three minor chords on the second, third, and sixth degrees — the subdominant (ii), mediant (iii), and submediant (vi). These minor chords are related to each other just like the major chords and can function as the first (i), fourth (iv), and fifth (v) degrees in the relative minor key. For example, the relative minor of C major is A minor, where in A minor, the i, iv, and v chords are A minor, D minor, and E minor. In minor chord progressions, the third of the dominant chord is often raised to create a major chord (or even a dominant seventh chord).

The seventh degree of the major scale forms a diminished chord (viiº), and there are also chords that include chromatic notes, or notes outside the scale. One of the simplest chromatic changes is raising the fourth degree (♯4), which can enhance the ii chord as a secondary dominant for the V chord. Chromatic notes are sometimes used for modulating to a new key, only to return later to the original key, creating a sense of musical movement.

Popular Progressions

Chord progressions can vary widely but are often kept to a few measures in length. Certain progressions have become standards, like the 12-bar blues progression, which has become a defining characteristic of blues. In Western classical notation, chords are numbered using Roman numerals, but there are other types of chord notation, like figured bass or chord charts, which often allow or even encourage a degree of improvisation.

Common Chord Progressions

Simple Chord Progressions

Simple chord progressions based on major and minor diatonic scales are the foundation of many popular chords, largely due to the presence of perfect fifths, which produce a harmonious sound. These scales are particularly prevalent in Western classical music, where harmony is a central element. Interestingly, in musical traditions like Arabic or Indian music, diatonic scales are also used, but in most cases, the music stays within a single chord or tonality, without shifting chords. This approach is also seen in rhythm-focused styles such as hard rock, hip-hop, funk, disco, and jazz.

The simplest chord progression can involve just two alternating chords. Many well-known songs are built on the repetition of two chords within the same scale. For example, numerous classical melodies are created by alternating between the tonic (I) and the dominant (V), sometimes adding a seventh to the dominant for extra tension. This technique is also common in popular music: “Achy Breaky Heart,” for instance, relies on two chords. The song “Shout” by The Isley Brothers uses a I–vi chord progression throughout, creating a simple but memorable rhythm.

Three-Chord Progressions

Three-chord progressions are common because they allow a melody to resolve on any note within the scale. These progressions often unfold as four-chord sequences, creating a binary rhythm with one chord repeated twice. Here are some popular examples:

• I – IV – V – V
• I – I – IV – V
• I – IV – I – V
• I – IV – V – IV

Sometimes, chords are chosen to fit a prewritten melody, but just as often, the melody itself emerges from the progression.

These three-chord structures are frequently found in African and American popular music. They can be enhanced by adding seventh chords or substituting the IV chord with its relative minor, creating a progression like I–ii–V. In jazz, the ii chord is commonly used as part of the ii–V–I cadence that brings a harmonic line to a satisfying close.

Three-chord progressions form the harmonic foundation of many African and American popular music genres and also appear in classical music, such as the opening measures of Beethoven’s “Pastoral Symphony.” If a simple sequence doesn’t capture the full harmonic structure of a piece, it can be easily extended for variety. Often, an initial phrase with a I–IV–V–V progression, ending unresolved on the dominant, can be followed by a phrase resolving back to the tonic, creating a double-length structure like this:

• I – IV – V – V
• I – IV – V – I

This type of sequence can alternate with other progressions, leading to simple binary or ternary forms, like the popular 32-bar structure widely used in popular music.

The Evolution of Blues Chord Progressions

The 12-bar blues progression, along with its many variations, is built on a three-part I–IV–V structure, which has become the foundation for countless classic songs. This form inspired iconic rock ‘n’ roll musicians like Chuck Berry and Little Richard. In its simplest version, the 12-bar blues chord progression looks like this:

• I – I – I – I
• IV – IV – I – I
• V – IV – I – I

Over time, blues progressions began incorporating chromatic elements, as seen in the “Bird blues” progression. Steedman (1984) proposed that a set of rewrite rules could generate various jazz variations of the blues — from the classic form to more complex transformations like “rhythm changes.” Key modification techniques include:

• substituting a chord with its dominant, subdominant, or tritone substitute;
• adding chromatic passing chords;
• incorporating the jazz cadence ii–V–I.

Other changes, such as adding minor or diminished chords, are also frequently used to enhance the harmony’s expressive quality.

The ’50s Progression

Another popular way to expand the I–IV–V progression is to add a chord based on the sixth scale degree, creating sequences like I–vi–IV–V or I–vi–ii–V. Often referred to as the “’50s progression” or “doo-wop progression,” this structure has roots in classical music and became the basis for hits like “Blue Moon” by Rodgers and Hart (1934) and “Heart and Soul” by Hoagy Carmichael (1938).

As pop music evolved, this progression was adapted by many artists and used in various forms. For example, The Beatles incorporated it into the closing section of their song “Happiness Is a Warm Gun,” highlighting its versatility and appeal in popular music.

Circle Chord Progressions

Incorporating the ii chord into a progression gives it a unique sound and forms the basis for circle progressions. Named after the circle of fifths, these progressions are built on a sequence where each successive chord moves up by a fourth. An example of such a progression is vi–ii–V–I, where each chord rises by one fourth from the previous chord. This kind of harmonic movement is one of the strongest and most widely used progressions in music. Circular progressions can be shortened or extended into longer forms, as seen in sequences that move from the tonic through all seven diatonic chords:

• I–IV–viiº–iii–vi–ii–V–I

Classical composers frequently used these progressions, adding subtleties and varying the chords to create more intricate harmonies. For example, by replacing major chords with minor ones, you can create a progression like I–VI–II–V, which allows for richer chromaticism and modulation.

These harmonic structures were adapted by American popular musicians, giving rise to new variations like ragtime and “stomp” progressions. Such sequences became foundational to early jazz, and their elements appear in various works, including the famous “rhythm changes” in George Gershwin’s song “I Got Rhythm.”

Scale Harmonization

Much like circular chord progressions, harmonizing along a scale’s sequence of notes creates a strong auditory effect. Chords that follow the scale up or down produce a sense of linear motion and are often called stepwise progressions, as they align with each step of the scale, making the scale itself the bass line. In the 17th century, descending bass lines became especially popular, as seen in ground bass patterns and in Pachelbel’s “Canon,” which illustrates harmonization along a descending major scale.

In its simplest form, a descending progression might introduce an additional chord, such as the III or V, into a sequence like I–vi–IV–V, helping harmonize the seventh scale degree and forming a bass line like I–VII–VI… A more complex example can be found in the final bars of the first movement of Ravel’s Piano Concerto in G Major, where Ravel used a series of parallel major chords to create a distinctive descending effect.

Minor and Modal Chord Progressions

The same harmonization techniques work equally well for minor modes. In minor blues and folk melodies, for instance, you often find progressions with one or several minor chords. A classic example of a descending minor progression is the Andalusian cadence, i–VII–VI–V, known for its dramatic and rich sound.

In melodies based on the Mixolydian mode, a scale with a lowered seventh is common. Here, three major chords typically appear on the first, fourth, and seventh degrees, like I–♭VII–IV. In C major, if the tonic shifts to G, the chords C, F, and G now align on the first, fourth, and seventh degrees, creating a widely used progression such as I–♭VII–IV–I or variations like II–♭VII–IV.

An interesting variation is a progression that transitions from a minor key to its relative major, as seen in ascending pentatonic scales. A typical progression for this style is i–III–IV (or iv)–VI, which brings a bright, uplifting quality to the sound.

According to Tom Sutcliffe, in the 1960s, some pop groups began experimenting with modal progressions as an alternative approach to harmonizing blues melodies, leading to a new harmonic system that influenced subsequent popular music.

This shift was partly due to the similarity between the blues scale and modal scales, and partly to the characteristics of guitar barre chords and parallel major chords in the pentatonic minor scale. The ease of moving chord shapes up and down the guitar neck without changing finger positions contributed to the rise of these harmonies, playing a significant role in the development of rock music and its subgenres.

5 Most Popular Chord Progressions in Pop Music

Here are five popular chord progressions in pop music, shown in the key of C major or A minor. Of course, these progressions can be transposed to any key to help you craft your unique style for songwriting.

I – V – vi – IV: C major, G major, A minor, F major

This progression is the ancestor of all four-chord pop sequences and has been used in countless hits, from “Torn” to “Wrecking Ball.” Despite its frequent use, it remains effective. Interestingly, in its minor form (A minor, F major, C major, G major), it creates a more reflective vibe, perfect for ballads like Justin Bieber’s “Ghost” or Kelly Clarkson’s “Stronger.” For inspiration, try experimenting with chord order or add tension by including additional notes.

I – vi – IV – V: C major, A minor, F major, G major

This sequence, known as the Doo-wop Changes or the ‘50s Progression, is familiar to many from the classic melody of “Heart and Soul.” Used in retro hits and songs by artists from The Police to Meghan Trainor, it’s ideal for creating a nostalgic atmosphere. To give it a more melancholy tone, try replacing F major with D minor for added depth.

I – V – IV – V: C major, G major, F major, G major

By omitting the A minor chord, you get a simpler, more versatile progression. These three chords create a balance between tension and release, allowing many artists to craft memorable guitar riffs. Examples include hits like “All The Small Things” and “American Idiot.”

I – ♭VII – IV – I: C major, B♭ major, F major, C major

This is a great progression for creating a Mixolydian feel, incorporating the lowered seventh (B♭) to give the melody a bluesy vibe. This mode works well for pop songs with a strong chorus and an interesting melodic movement.

i – ♭VII – ♭VI – ♭VII: A minor, G major, F major, G major

This minor progression, recognizable from songs like “Rolling in the Deep” and “Somebody That I Used to Know,” has a cyclical feel due to the repetition of the second and fourth chords. The progression can also be varied, for instance, by swapping the final chord for E major (V) as in Christina Aguilera’s “Genie In A Bottle.”

Start Creating Your Own Pop Chord Progressions

Now that you’ve learned how the pros build their chord sequences, you’re ready to start crafting your own pop progressions. As a musician, you have a natural ear for what works and what doesn’t, so don’t hesitate to experiment with different chord types and structures until the progression sounds just right to you.

Don’t worry if you begin by borrowing progressions from popular songs or if your ideas feel too simple. Remember, Sam Smith’s hit “Unholy” revolves around just two main chords, yet it became a massive success. If your production skills and musical ideas are solid, the specific chords you choose will be the last thing listeners notice.