What is a chord progression?

A chord progression is a sequence of chords played in order. It creates harmonic movement and emotional direction in a song. Most popular songs use progressions of 4 chords or fewer.

What is the most common chord progression?

The I-V-vi-IV progression (like C-G-Am-F in C Major) is used in thousands of hit songs. It's sometimes called the 'four-chord pop' progression and appears in songs like 'Don't Stop Believing,' 'Let It Be,' and 'I'm Yours.'

What chord is considered 'home' in any key?

The I chord (tonic) is 'home.' It feels resolved, stable, and complete. Most songs start and end on the I chord.

Which chord creates the most tension?

The V chord (dominant) creates the strongest tension. It urgently wants to resolve back to I. The vii° chord also creates tension but is less commonly used.

What does the vi chord do in a progression?

The vi chord is the relative minor of the tonic. It adds emotional depth and creates contrast when used after I or V. Starting on vi instead of I gives a progression a sad, longing feel.

How many chords can I use in a progression?

You can use as many as you want, but most popular songs use 3-5 chords. Simpler progressions are often more memorable and singable. The progression builder on this page supports up to 8 chords.

♪ Episode 4 of 7

Your First Chord Progression

Build your first chord sequence using the 7 chords in any key

Every song you love uses chord progressions — sequences that create movement and emotion. In this lesson, you'll learn how the 7 chords in any key work together, and why patterns like I-V-vi-IV appear in thousands of hit songs.

Select Your Key

All chords will be from this key

Your Seven Chords

Click to add to your progression

Your Progression

Up to 8 chords

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Tempo: 120 BPM Quarter note = 120

Common Progressions

Click to explore

Four-Chord Pop

I - V - vi - IV

C - G - Am - F

50s Progression

I - vi - IV - V

C - Am - F - G

Blues Backbone

I - IV - V - I

C - F - G - C

Jazz Standard

ii - V - I - vi

Dm - G - C - Am

Sad & Longing

vi - IV - I - V

Am - F - C - G

Pop-Punk Energy

I - V - IV - I

C - G - F - C

⚡ Key Concepts

● A progression is a sequence of chords
● I is home — feels resolved and stable
● V creates tension — wants to resolve to I
● vi is emotional — the relative minor
Creates contrast when used after I or V
● IV lifts and builds momentum
● ii prepares the V (pre-dominant)
● vii° is tense and unstable — it urgently wants to resolve to I
● Common patterns are starting points, not rules
● Your ears are your best guide

Up Next

The Other Side: Minor Keys

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