One of the fundamental building blocks of music is the chord progression. Chord progressions are the sequential use of different chords to create harmonic motion and tension and release. Understanding how chord progressions work can help you write more interesting and engaging music, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced composer.
Let’s look at what chord progressions are, how they work and some common types of progressions you can use in your own compositions.
What Are Chord Progressions?
At its most basic level, a chord progression is simply a series of chords played in sequence. Chords are made up of three or more notes played together, and they are often used to accompany a melody or vocal line. By combining different chords in different ways, composers can create different moods, atmospheres and emotions in their music.
Chord progressions are often described using Roman numerals to represent each chord in the sequence. For example, a common chord progression in the key of C major might be described as I-IV-V, which means the chords used are C major (I), F major (IV), and G major (V).
How Do Chord Progressions Work?
Chord progressions work by creating tension and release through the use of different chords. Some chords sound more stable or resolved than others, and by moving between different chords, composers can create a harmonic structure with a sense of forward motion and direction in their music.
For example, in the I-IV-V progression we mentioned earlier, the V chord (G major in the key of C) creates a sense of tension that is then resolved when the progression returns to the I chord (C major). This sense of tension and release is what gives chord progressions their emotional impact and makes them so effective in creating memorable music.
Common Types of Chord Progressions
There are many different types of chord progressions you can use in your music, each with its own unique sound and emotional impact. Here are a few common types of progressions to get you started:
I-IV-V
As mentioned earlier, this is one of the most common chord progressions in Western music. It’s often used in blues, rock and pop music, and has a strong and stable sound that feels familiar and satisfying.
I-V-vi-IV
This progression is often called the “pop punk” or “pop rock” progression, and can be heard in many popular songs. It has a bouncy and upbeat feel that’s perfect for energetic and catchy melodies.
ii-V-I
This progression is common in jazz and other forms of improvised music. It creates a sense of forward motion and resolution, and is often used to create complex and sophisticated harmonic textures.
I-vi-IV-V
This progression is sometimes called the “50s progression,” as it was a common feature of many popular songs from that era. It has a nostalgic and sentimental feel that can be used to create a sense of longing or wistfulness in your music.
vi-IV-I-V
This progression is often used in ballads and slower songs, as it has a more relaxed and contemplative feel. It can create a sense of sadness or introspection, depending on how it’s used.
What Are Some Energetic Chord Progressions?
I-IV-V and I-V-vi-IV are two energetic chord progressions that are quite popular in modern music.
I-IV-V provides a high-energy feel. For example, in C major: C-F-G.
I-V-vi-IV has an upbeat and catchy vibe. In C major: C-G-Am-F.
What Are Some Nostalgic Chord Progressions?
Three nostalgic chord progressions commonly used are vi-IV-I-V, I-vi-IV-V and vi-ii-V-I.
vi-IV-I-V evokes a sense of nostalgia reminiscent of doo-wop and old-school rock ‘n’ roll. In C major: Am-F-C-G.
I-vi-IV-V creates a wistful and reflective mood. For example, in C major: C-Am-F-G.
vi-ii-V-I is used in jazz standards and can evoke a vintage and sophisticated atmosphere. In C major: Am-Dm-G-C.