Reference · 8 progressions

Common chord progressions

A handful of chord patterns carry most of the songs you know. Learn them as once and you can play them in any key.

Major and minor progressions

Each page spells the progression in all twelve keys, plays it in the key you choose, and lists songs that use it.

Major keyThe pop axisThe pop axis is I–V–vi–IV. In C major that is C, G, Am and F.Heard in Let It Be, No Woman No Cry, With or Without You
Major keyThree-chord rockThree-chord rock is I–IV–V–IV. In C major that is C, F and G.Heard in La Bamba, Twist and Shout, Wild Thing
Major key'50s doo-wopThe '50s doo-wop progression is I–vi–IV–V. In C major that is C, Am, F and G.Heard in Stand by Me, Every Breath You Take
Major keyJazz ii–V–IThe jazz ii–V–I is ii7–V7–Imaj7. In C major that is Dm7, G7 and Cmaj7.Heard in Autumn Leaves, Fly Me to the Moon
Major key12-bar bluesThe 12-bar blues is I7–I7–I7–I7–IV7–IV7–I7–I7–V7–IV7–I7–V7. In C major that is C7, F7 and G7.Heard in Johnny B. Goode, Pride and Joy, Hound Dog
Minor keyMinor popThe minor pop progression is i–VI–III–VII. In A minor that is Am, F, C and G.Heard in Zombie, Numb, Despacito
Minor keyAndalusian cadenceThe Andalusian cadence is i–VII–VI–V. In A minor that is Am, G, F and E.Heard in Hit the Road Jack, Runaway, Stray Cat Strut
Minor keyMinor ii–V–iThe minor ii–V–i is iiø7–V7–i7. In A minor that is Bm7♭5, E7 and Am7.Heard in Blue Bossa, Autumn Leaves