Chord progressions
Original exercises with chord diagrams, strumming patterns and practice tips. From beginner to advanced.
105 progressions
Modal Rock (I–bVII–IV)
By replacing the V chord with the bVII (flat-seven), this progression avoids the …
Reggae One-Drop in A
The reggae "one-drop" rhythm is named for the absence of any emphasis on beat 1 — …
Doo-Wop / 50s (I–vi–IV–V)
The classic doo-wop progression from the 1950s.
Classic Rock bVII (I–V–bVII–IV)
A close relative of the I–V–vi–IV, but replacing the relative minor with the flat-seven…
Rock Minor Wall (i–bVII–bVI–bVII)
A dark, powerful minor progression that drives through the bVII and bVI chords.
Son Cubano / Guajira in C
Son cubano is the root of much modern Latin music, from salsa to mambo.
Descending Metal Riff in B minor
A descending chromatic bass line over minor harmony creates one of heavy metal's …
Minor Pop Loop (vi–IV–I–V)
Starting on the vi chord gives this progression a melancholic, introspective quality …
Soul / R&B Turnaround in G
The soul and R&B turnaround uses lush seventh and extended chords to create warmth …
Jazz Turnaround (iii–VI–ii–V) in C
The jazz turnaround is a four-chord sequence used to lead back to the top of a form.
Samba in E
Brazilian samba guitar (violão) plays a rhythmic "batida" that complements the pe…
Jazz Blues in Bb
The jazz blues in Bb enriches the basic 12-bar form with ii–V substitutions and p…
Cha-Cha-Chá in A
The cha-cha-chá originated in Cuba in the 1950s and is characterized by its synco…
Grunge Minor (i–bIII–IV)
The grunge and alternative rock sound in three chords.
Gentle Pop (I–iii–IV–I)
A soft, warm progression that uses the mediant (iii) chord to create a gentle mel…
Falling Leaves Cycle (Autumn Leaves type) in G minor
Inspired by the harmonic movement of classic jazz standards like Autumn Leaves, this …
Double Four-Bar Loop (I–IV–V–IV)
A rock and roll staple: I–IV–V–IV in A major gives you A–D–E–D.
The Four-Chord Song (I–V–vi–IV)
The most ubiquitous chord progression in modern pop.
Rhythm Changes A Section (I–VI–ii–V) in Bb
Based on Gershwin's "I Got Rhythm," this is the second most important progression in ja…
Metal Power Chord Riff in E minor
Power chords (root + fifth, no third) are the foundation of heavy metal and hard rock.