Chord Progressions

Master the chord progressions that power your favorite songs. From simple pop progressions to complex jazz sequences, learn the patterns that make music move.

Essential Chord Progressions

I-V-vi-IV (Pop Progression)
The most popular progression in modern music

Roman Numerals

I - V - vi - IV

Example in C Major

C - G - Am - F

Common in

PopRockCountryFolk
ii-V-I (Jazz Standard)
Essential jazz progression

Roman Numerals

ii - V - I

Example in C Major

Dm7 - G7 - Cmaj7

Common in

JazzBossa NovaSwing
12-Bar Blues
Classic blues form

Roman Numerals

I - I - I - I - IV - IV - I - I - V - IV - I - I

Example in C Major

C7 - F7 - G7

Common in

BluesRockCountry
vi-IV-I-V (Emotional Progression)
Creates emotional tension and release

Roman Numerals

vi - IV - I - V

Example in C Major

Am - F - C - G

Common in

PopRockBallads

Learn by Instrument

Guitar Progressions
Learn how to play chord progressions on guitar with strumming patterns and fingerings.
Piano Progressions
Master chord progressions on piano with voice leading and inversions.
Ukulele Progressions
Simple ukulele progressions perfect for strumming along to your favorite songs.

Understanding Chord Progressions

Chord progressions are sequences of chords that create the harmonic foundation of music. They provide structure, emotion, and movement to songs across all genres.

Roman Numeral Analysis

Roman numerals represent the relationship between chords and the key center. Uppercase numerals (I, IV, V) represent major chords, while lowercase (ii, iii, vi) represent minor chords. This system works in any key.

Common Functions

  • Tonic (I): Home chord, provides stability
  • Subdominant (IV): Creates gentle movement away from home
  • Dominant (V): Creates tension that wants to resolve to I
  • Relative minor (vi): Adds emotional depth