Common Pop Chord Progressions Every Guitarist Should Know

The Big Four Pop Progressions

These four progressions appear in hundreds of hit songs across decades of popular music. Master these, and you'll understand the harmonic foundation of modern songwriting.

1. vi-IV-I-V (The "Axis" Progression)

In C major: Am → F → C → G

Why it works: Creates emotional depth by starting on the minor vi chord, then providing strong resolution through IV-I-V movement.

2. I-V-vi-IV (The "Pop Punk" Progression)

In C major: C → G → Am → F

Why it works: Starts with confidence (I chord), builds tension (V), adds emotion (vi), and provides gentle resolution (IV).

3. I-vi-IV-V (The "50s Progression")

In C major: C → Am → F → G

Why it works: The classic doo-wop progression that established the foundation for rock and roll.

4. vi-V-IV-V (The "Emotional" Progression)

In C major: Am → G → F → G

Why it works: Creates a sense of yearning and unresolved tension, perfect for emotional ballads.

Understanding Roman Numeral Analysis

Roman numerals help you understand progressions in any key:

• I, IV, V = Major chords (uppercase)
• ii, iii, vi = Minor chords (lowercase)
• vii° = Diminished chord

Transposing Pop Progressions

Once you know the Roman numeral pattern, you can play in any key:

Songwriting with Pop Progressions

These progressions are templates, not rules. Here's how to use them creatively:

Variation Techniques:

• Inversion: Use different bass notes (Am/C instead of Am)
• Extensions: Add 7ths, 9ths, or sus chords
• Rhythm: Change the timing and duration of each chord
• Substitution: Replace chords with related ones

Frequently Asked Questions