A chord progression is a sequence of chords that forms the harmonic backbone of a song. Different genres have characteristic progressions that define their sound. Select a genre and root key to see the most common progressions transposed to your key.
How to Use the Chord Progression Generator
This chord progression generator shows the most common harmonic patterns for each major genre, transposed to any root key. Each progression is shown in both Roman numeral notation (key-independent) and actual chord names for your chosen key.
How to Read Roman Numeral Notation
Roman numerals represent scale degrees: I = tonic (1st note), ii = supertonic (2nd, minor), iii = mediant (3rd, minor), IV = subdominant (4th), V = dominant (5th), vi = submediant (6th, minor), vii° = leading tone (7th, diminished). Uppercase = major, lowercase = minor.
Using Progressions in Songwriting
These progressions are starting points. The I-V-vi-IV (pop progression) is in thousands of hit songs — but execution, melody, rhythm, and production differentiate them. Try changing the order (vi-IV-I-V sounds very different from I-V-vi-IV), varying tempo, adding extensions (maj7, sus4, add9), or borrowing chords from the parallel minor key.
Genre Characteristics
Jazz progressions center on ii-V-I movement with extended harmony. Blues uses the I7-IV7-V7 dominant seventh pattern. Pop/rock favors four-chord loops. Metal uses power chords and modal borrowing (bVII, bVI from Aeolian mode). Folk/country emphasizes I, IV, and V with occasional vi or ii. Understanding what makes each genre tick helps you write authentic-sounding music or blend genres creatively.
FAQ
Is this chord progression generator free?
Yes, completely free. Generate progressions for any genre and key without any account or payment.
Is my data private?
All calculations run in your browser. No data is sent to any server.
What is Roman numeral notation for chords?
Roman numerals represent chord scale degrees: I = tonic (1st), IV = subdominant (4th), V = dominant (5th). Uppercase = major, lowercase = minor. The I-V-vi-IV progression in C major means C-G-Am-F. In G major, the same pattern gives G-D-Em-C.
What is the most common chord progression?
The I-V-vi-IV (pop progression) is arguably the most used in modern music, found in thousands of pop songs. The I-IV-V (blues) and ii-V-I (jazz) are the other most fundamental progressions across Western music.
How do I use these progressions in songwriting?
Start with a progression that fits your genre, pick a key comfortable for your vocals, and experiment with the order of chords. Try adding passing chords between steps, varying the rhythm, or substituting chords (vi for I, II7 for V). The progression is a starting point, not a formula.
What makes jazz progressions different?
Jazz progressions rely heavily on ii-V-I movement (Dm7-G7-Cmaj7), extended chords (9ths, 11ths, 13ths), chord substitutions (tritone subs, secondary dominants), and borrowed chords from parallel modes. The ii-V-I is the fundamental building block of jazz harmony.
Can I use these progressions commercially?
Yes. Chord progressions cannot be copyrighted under US law. Only specific arrangements and melodies can be protected. These are generic harmonic frameworks used throughout music history.