9.3 Chord progressions
9 min read•august 20, 2024
Chord progressions form the backbone of musical harmony, guiding the emotional journey of a piece. They create a sense of movement and , shaping the listener's experience. Understanding chord progressions is crucial for composers, arrangers, and performers across various musical genres.
In this topic, we'll explore the basics of chord progression theory, functional harmony, and common progressions. We'll also dive into chord substitution techniques, modulation methods, and how chord progressions are used in different musical styles. This knowledge will help you craft more compelling and dynamic musical compositions.
Basic chord progression theory
Diatonic chords in major keys
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- are built using only the notes found within a given key signature
- In major keys, diatonic triads are constructed by stacking thirds on each scale degree
- The diatonic chords in a major key follow the pattern: I (major), ii (minor), iii (minor), IV (major), V (major), vi (minor), and vii° (diminished)
- Example: In the key of C major, the diatonic chords are C (I), Dm (ii), Em (iii), F (IV), G (V), Am (vi), and B° (vii°)
Diatonic chords in minor keys
- Minor keys also have diatonic chords built from their respective scale degrees
- The diatonic chords in a natural minor key follow the pattern: i (minor), ii° (diminished), III (major), iv (minor), v (minor), VI (major), and VII (major)
- In harmonic minor, the v chord becomes a major triad (V) due to the raised 7th scale degree
- Example: In the key of A minor, the diatonic chords are Am (i), B° (ii°), C (III), Dm (iv), E (V), F (VI), and G# (VII)
Common chord progression notation
- Chord progressions are often notated using Roman numerals to represent the scale degree of each chord
- Upper-case numerals (I, IV, V) denote major triads, while lower-case numerals (i, iv, v) denote minor triads
- Additional symbols, such as ° for diminished and + for augmented, are used to indicate chord qualities
- Chord progressions can also be written using letter names (C, F, G) or chord symbols (Cmaj7, Dm7, G7)
Functional harmony
Tonic chords for stability
- chords, built on the first scale degree (I or i), provide a sense of resolution and stability in a progression
- They often serve as the starting and ending points of a or section
- Tonic chords can be extended to create more complex harmonies, such as Imaj7 or i7
Dominant chords for tension
- chords, built on the fifth scale degree (V or v), create and a strong pull towards the tonic
- In major keys, the dominant chord is typically a major triad (V) with a tendency to resolve to the tonic
- Dominant chords can be extended to create tension and interest, such as V7 or V9
Predominant chords for movement
- , such as ii (minor) and IV (major), are used to create harmonic movement between the tonic and dominant
- They often precede the dominant chord, setting up the tension and resolution
- Predominant chords can be extended or altered to add variety, such as ii7 or iv6
Subdominant vs supertonic chords
- The chord (IV) is built on the fourth scale degree and shares two common tones with the tonic chord
- The supertonic chord (ii) is built on the second scale degree and shares one common tone with the tonic chord
- Both subdominant and supertonic chords function as predominant chords, but the supertonic is considered slightly less stable
- Example: In the key of C major, the subdominant chord is F (IV), and the supertonic chord is Dm (ii)
Common chord progressions
I-IV-V progressions
- The progression is one of the most common and fundamental chord progressions in Western music
- It consists of the tonic (I), subdominant (IV), and dominant (V) chords, creating a strong sense of harmony and resolution
- This progression is often used in popular music, folk, and rock genres
- Example: C (I) - F (IV) - G (V) in the key of C major
ii-V-I progressions
- The progression is a staple in jazz music and is also common in other genres
- It features the supertonic (ii), dominant (V), and tonic (I) chords, creating a smooth harmonic movement
- The ii-V-I progression can be extended with seventh chords for added complexity, such as ii7-V7-Imaj7
- Example: Dm7 (ii7) - G7 (V7) - Cmaj7 (Imaj7) in the key of C major
I-vi-IV-V progressions
- The I-vi-IV-V progression, also known as the "50s progression" or "doo-wop progression," is common in popular music
- It features the tonic (I), (vi), subdominant (IV), and dominant (V) chords
- This progression creates a memorable and emotive harmonic structure
- Example: C (I) - Am (vi) - F (IV) - G (V) in the key of C major
Blues progressions
- Blues progressions are based on a 12-bar structure and typically feature the I, IV, and V chords
- The basic follows the pattern: I-I-I-I, IV-IV-I-I, V-IV-I-I
- Blues progressions often incorporate seventh chords and can be varied with substitutions or turnarounds
- Example: C7 (I7) - F7 (IV7) - G7 (V7) in the key of C
Deceptive cadences
- A deceptive occurs when the dominant (V) chord resolves to a chord other than the tonic (I), often the submediant (vi)
- create a sense of surprise and can extend the harmonic progression
- They are often used to prolong a phrase or to modulate to a new key
- Example: G (V) resolving to Am (vi) instead of C (I) in the key of C major
Chord substitution
Diatonic substitution
- involves replacing a chord with another diatonic chord that shares common tones
- Common diatonic substitutions include using the vi chord in place of the I chord or the ii chord in place of the IV chord
- Diatonic substitutions can add variety and interest to a progression while maintaining the overall harmonic structure
- Example: Substituting Am (vi) for C (I) in a C major progression
Tritone substitution
- involves replacing a dominant seventh chord with another dominant seventh chord a tritone away
- The tritone substitution works because both chords share the same tritone interval (3rd and 7th of the chord)
- This substitution is commonly used in jazz to create a smooth chromatic movement in the bassline
- Example: Substituting Db7 for G7 in a ii-V-I progression in C major
Secondary dominants
- are dominant chords that temporarily tonicize a diatonic chord other than the tonic
- They are usually notated with a slash followed by the chord being tonicized, such as V/ii or V/vi
- Secondary dominants add tension and interest to a progression by briefly implying a new tonal center
- Example: Using D7 (V/V) to tonicize G (V) in the key of C major
Borrowed chords
- are chords that are "borrowed" from the parallel key (major or minor) to add color and variety to a progression
- Common borrowed chords include the bVI (flat six) chord in major keys and the IV and V chords in minor keys
- Borrowed chords can create a sense of modal mixture and add emotional depth to a progression
- Example: Using Ab (bVI) in a C major progression, borrowed from the parallel C minor key
Modulation via chord progressions
Pivot chord modulation
- involves using a chord that is common to both the original key and the new key as a "pivot point"
- The pivot chord serves as a smooth transition between the two keys, allowing for a seamless modulation
- Pivot chord modulations often utilize chords that are diatonic to both keys, such as the ii or IV chord
- Example: Using Dm (ii in C major, vi in F major) as a pivot chord to modulate from C major to F major
Common chord modulation
- is similar to pivot chord modulation but uses a chord that is not necessarily diatonic to both keys
- The common chord serves as a link between the two keys, but may require more abrupt changes in harmony
- Common chord modulations can create a sense of surprise or dramatic shift in the music
- Example: Using E (III in C major, V in A minor) as a common chord to modulate from C major to A minor
Abrupt key changes
- , also known as direct modulations, involve moving to a new key without any preparation or pivot chords
- These modulations can create a stark contrast and sudden change in the harmonic landscape
- Abrupt key changes are often used for dramatic effect or to signify a new section in the music
- Example: Moving directly from a C major chord to an F# major chord, signifying a modulation from C major to F# major
Chord progressions in popular music
Pop vs rock progressions
- Pop music often utilizes simple, repetitive chord progressions that are easy to remember and sing along to
- Common pop progressions include I-V-vi-IV, I-IV-V, and variations of the ii-V-I progression
- Rock music tends to use more power chords (chords consisting of the root and fifth) and heavy distortion
- Rock progressions often emphasize the I, IV, and V chords, with occasional use of modal interchange or chromaticism
Jazz chord progressions
- are known for their complex harmonies, extended chords, and frequent modulations
- The ii-V-I progression is a fundamental building block in jazz, often featuring seventh chords and alterations
- Jazz progressions also utilize chord substitutions, such as tritone substitutions and secondary dominants
- Examples of common jazz progressions include I-vi-ii-V, iii-VI-ii-V, and the "Rhythm Changes" progression
Country music progressions
- Country music often uses simple, traditional chord progressions that emphasize the storytelling aspect of the lyrics
- Common country progressions include I-IV-V, I-vi-IV-V, and variations of the 12-bar blues
- Country music also incorporates elements of folk and blues, using seventh chords and occasional minor harmonies
- Example: The "Folsom Prison Blues" progression, I-V-I-I-IV-IV-I-I-V-V-I-I
Composing with chord progressions
Harmonizing melodies
- When composing with chord progressions, one approach is to start with a melody and then harmonize it with appropriate chords
- Consider the key of the melody and choose chords that support the melodic structure and create desired emotional effects
- Pay attention to the relationships between the melody notes and the chord tones to create a cohesive harmony
- Example: Harmonizing the melody "Happy Birthday" with the chords I-V-I-vi-IV-V-I in the key of C major
Chord voicing and inversion
- Chord voicing refers to the arrangement of notes within a chord, which can greatly impact the overall sound and texture
- Inversions involve changing the lowest note of the chord, creating different bass lines and harmonic movement
- Experimenting with different voicings and inversions can add interest and variety to a chord progression
- Example: Using a C major chord in root position (C-E-G), first inversion (E-G-C), or second inversion (G-C-E)
Creating harmonic interest
- To create harmonic interest, consider using chord substitutions, modulations, and non-diatonic chords in your progressions
- Incorporate seventh chords, extended chords, and altered chords to add depth and complexity to the harmony
- Use chromaticism and modal interchange to create unexpected moments and emotional shifts in the music
- Example: Adding a bIIImaj7 chord (Ebmaj7) to a progression in C major for a momentary chromatic color
Avoiding cliché progressions
- While common chord progressions are popular for a reason, overusing them can make your music sound cliché or unoriginal
- To avoid cliché progressions, try incorporating less common chords, such as the iii, vi, or vii° chords
- Experiment with unconventional chord sequences or create your own progressions based on the melodic and emotional content of your music
- Consider using modal progressions or borrowing chords from parallel keys to create a unique harmonic palette
- Example: Using a progression like I-iii-IV-vi instead of the more common I-IV-V or I-vi-IV-V
Key Terms to Review (31)
Abrupt key changes: Abrupt key changes refer to sudden transitions from one key to another in a piece of music without any gradual modulation or preparation. These shifts can create surprising emotional effects and are often used to enhance drama or contrast within a composition, making them a notable feature in various genres.
Blues progression: A blues progression is a specific chord sequence commonly used in blues music, typically following a 12-bar format with a repetitive pattern of I, IV, and V chords. This structure provides a foundation for improvisation and expression, allowing musicians to explore different melodies and rhythms within a consistent harmonic framework. The blues progression is essential in understanding various musical styles, influencing genres like jazz, rock, and R&B.
Borrowed chords: Borrowed chords are chords that are taken from a parallel key, which can create interesting harmonic variation and tension in music. They add color to chord progressions by introducing unexpected harmonies that aren't typically found in the original key, enhancing the emotional impact and depth of the music.
Cadence: A cadence is a melodic or harmonic configuration that creates a sense of resolution at the end of a musical phrase. It serves as a musical punctuation mark, signaling the closure of a thought or section, and is crucial for establishing tonal center and movement in music.
Common chord modulation: Common chord modulation is a technique used to shift from one key to another by utilizing a chord that is common to both keys. This method creates a smooth transition between different harmonic areas, enhancing the flow of music. By focusing on a shared chord, composers can effectively pivot from one tonal center to another while maintaining a sense of cohesion in their progressions.
Country music progressions: Country music progressions refer to the specific sequences of chords commonly used in country music compositions. These progressions are often characterized by their simplicity, typically using a limited number of chords that create a familiar sound, allowing for emotional storytelling and singability. The most prevalent progressions include I-IV-V and I-vi-ii-V, which contribute to the genre's distinctive feel and appeal.
Deceptive Cadences: Deceptive cadences occur when a musical phrase resolves to a chord that is unexpected, typically moving from the dominant chord (V) to a submediant chord (vi) instead of the tonic. This creates a sense of surprise and can evoke various emotional responses, contributing to the overall tension and release within a piece. Understanding deceptive cadences is crucial for analyzing how composers manipulate harmony and expectation in chord progressions.
Diatonic Chords: Diatonic chords are chords that are built from the notes of a specific scale, typically the major or minor scale. Each chord is formed by stacking notes in thirds and corresponds to a scale degree, providing a framework for harmony within a piece of music. These chords are crucial in establishing tonal centers and creating chord progressions that sound cohesive and harmonically rich.
Diatonic Substitution: Diatonic substitution refers to the practice of replacing a chord in a progression with another chord that belongs to the same key, while maintaining the overall tonal center. This technique allows composers and musicians to create variations in harmony and enrich the musical texture, as well as introduce unexpected turns within a piece, all while adhering to the diatonic framework of the key.
Dominant: In music, the term dominant refers to the fifth scale degree of a diatonic scale, and it plays a crucial role in establishing harmonic tension and resolution within musical compositions. The dominant chord is built on this fifth degree, creating a strong pull back to the tonic, which is the first degree of the scale. This relationship is essential in understanding chord progressions, harmonic dictation, and overall tonal structure.
Duke Ellington: Duke Ellington was a prominent American composer, pianist, and bandleader who played a pivotal role in the development of jazz music during the 20th century. He is best known for his innovative orchestral arrangements and compositions that transformed jazz into a sophisticated art form, often incorporating complex chord progressions and harmonies that influenced generations of musicians.
Harmonic modulation: Harmonic modulation is the process of changing from one key to another within a piece of music, using chords that facilitate a smooth transition. This technique allows composers to create contrast and develop musical ideas while maintaining coherence through the careful selection of pivot chords, which belong to both the original and the new key. It's essential for creating dynamic chord progressions that enhance emotional expression in music.
I-iv-v: The i-iv-v chord progression is a common sequence found in music, particularly in minor keys, where 'i' represents the tonic chord, 'iv' is the subdominant chord, and 'v' is the dominant chord. This progression creates a sense of movement and tension, often leading back to the tonic, making it foundational for many songs. Understanding this sequence is key for recognizing patterns in diatonic harmony and how they contribute to effective chord progressions.
Ii-v-i: The ii-v-i progression is a common chord sequence in music that moves from the supertonic (ii) chord to the dominant (v) chord and resolves to the tonic (i) chord. This progression is foundational in jazz and popular music, creating a strong sense of movement and resolution, and is closely tied to the concepts of chord progressions, diatonic harmony, and harmonic structure.
Jazz chord progressions: Jazz chord progressions are sequences of chords that serve as the harmonic foundation for jazz compositions and improvisations. These progressions often incorporate extended harmonies, such as 7ths, 9ths, 11ths, and 13ths, allowing for rich tonal colors and complex structures that contribute to the distinctive sound of jazz music.
Jazz standards: Jazz standards are a set of musical compositions that are widely recognized and performed by jazz musicians. These songs often serve as a common repertoire that allows musicians to communicate and collaborate effectively, showcasing essential elements of jazz improvisation and interpretation.
Nostalgia: Nostalgia is a sentimental longing for the past, often evoking feelings of warmth and affection. It can manifest through music by triggering memories tied to specific experiences or emotions, connecting listeners to familiar chord progressions that enhance the nostalgic feeling.
Phrase: A phrase is a musical unit that expresses a complete thought or idea, typically made up of a series of notes or chords that form a recognizable melody or progression. Phrases often have a clear beginning and end, and they serve as building blocks for longer musical structures. Understanding phrases is essential for analyzing melodies, constructing chord progressions, and recognizing the overall form and structure of a piece of music.
Pivot chord modulation: Pivot chord modulation is a technique used in music to smoothly transition from one key to another by using a chord that is common to both keys. This allows composers and musicians to create seamless shifts in tonality without jarring the listener, enhancing the overall musical narrative. The pivot chord serves as a bridge, facilitating a natural flow between the original key and the new key, often utilizing secondary dominants or closely related chords.
Pop vs Rock Progressions: Pop vs rock progressions refers to the different approaches in chord sequences commonly found in pop and rock music. While both genres utilize similar chords, their progressions often differ in complexity, structure, and emotional impact, leading to distinct musical experiences.
Predominant chords: Predominant chords are specific chords that typically precede the dominant chord in a harmonic progression, creating tension that resolves into the dominant. These chords help establish a sense of movement within music, contributing to the overall flow of a chord progression. Commonly used predominant chords include the subdominant (IV) and the supertonic (ii), which lead listeners towards the dominant (V) and ultimately the tonic (I).
Resolution: Resolution refers to the process by which a musical tension is released, often leading to a sense of closure or stability in a progression. It typically involves moving from a dissonant chord or note to a consonant one, and this transition plays a crucial role in establishing the overall emotional narrative of a piece. Understanding resolution helps musicians recognize how melodies and harmonies interact to create musical coherence.
Secondary dominants: Secondary dominants are chords that function as a dominant (V) to a chord other than the tonic in a given key, creating tension and leading to temporary resolutions. They enhance harmonic progression by introducing new tonalities and allowing for a greater sense of movement within a piece. This concept is crucial for understanding how composers expand their harmonic vocabulary and create richer musical textures.
Subdominant: The subdominant is the fourth scale degree in a diatonic scale and serves as an important harmonic function, typically providing a sense of movement away from the tonic while creating tension that leads back to it. This term is crucial in understanding chord relationships and progressions, as the subdominant chord plays a significant role in shaping the musical landscape by preparing for the dominant and returning to the tonic.
Submediant: The submediant is the sixth scale degree in a diatonic scale, which is positioned three whole tones above the tonic and is often associated with the mediant's role in harmony. This degree plays a significant role in creating tension and resolution within chord progressions, contributing to the overall emotional texture of a piece. It also functions in various harmonic contexts, serving as a pivot point in modulations and offering rich possibilities for chord extensions and variations.
Suspense: Suspense is a musical technique used to create a feeling of tension and anticipation in the listener. It often arises from unresolved musical elements, such as unexpected chord progressions or cadences that leave the audience waiting for resolution. This tension can engage listeners and keep them on the edge of their seats as they anticipate how the music will unfold.
Tension: Tension in music refers to the feeling of instability or anticipation created by certain notes, chords, or rhythms that often resolve into a more stable state. This concept is crucial as it drives musical narratives, engaging listeners through a dynamic interplay between consonance and dissonance, rhythmic placement, and harmonic movement.
The Beatles: The Beatles were an iconic British rock band formed in Liverpool in 1960, consisting of John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr. They revolutionized music and popular culture through their innovative songwriting, studio experimentation, and unique chord progressions, which helped shape the sound of the 1960s and beyond.
Tonic: The tonic is the first note of a scale and serves as the home base or central pitch around which the other notes in the scale revolve. It establishes the tonal center, providing a sense of resolution and stability in music, and is crucial for understanding scales, harmonies, and chord progressions.
Tritone substitution: Tritone substitution is a harmonic concept where one dominant seventh chord is replaced by another dominant seventh chord that is a tritone away. This technique creates a richer harmonic palette and allows for smoother voice leading in chord progressions, often enhancing the tension and resolution in musical phrases. It is widely used in jazz and popular music to add complexity to harmonic improvisation and create unexpected turns in the music.
Voice Leading: Voice leading is the practice of composing music in a way that ensures smooth and logical movement from one chord to another by focusing on how individual melodic lines or 'voices' transition between notes. This technique is crucial for creating harmonic progressions that are pleasing to the ear, ensuring that intervals between successive notes are handled with care to maintain clarity and coherence in the musical texture.