Chord Progression Generator
A chord progression generator tool or algorithm creates sequences of chords commonly used in music composition. It helps musicians and songwriters by suggesting harmonically pleasing chord combinations based on musical theory principles.
Chord progression generator output a sequence like C – Am – F – G for a song in the key of C major.
This progression, known as the “I-vi-IV-V” progression, is widely used in popular music and forms the basis of many hit songs.
Chord Progressions Chart
| Progression Name | C Major | G Major | D Major | A Major |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| I-V-vi-IV | C-G-Am-F | G-D-Em-C | D-A-Bm-G | A-E-F#m-D |
| ii-V-I | Dm-G-C | Am-D-G | Em-A-D | Bm-E-A |
| I-IV-V | C-F-G | G-C-D | D-G-A | A-D-E |
| vi-IV-I-V | Am-F-C-G | Em-C-G-D | Bm-G-D-A | F#m-D-A-E |
| I-vi-IV-V | C-Am-F-G | G-Em-C-D | D-Bm-G-A | A-F#m-D-E |
Chord Progression Formula
In the key of C major:
- I = C (1st scale degree)
- ii = Dm (2nd scale degree)
- iii = Em (3rd scale degree)
- IV = F (4th scale degree)
- V = G (5th scale degree)
- vi = Am (6th scale degree)
- vii° = B diminished (7th scale degree)
The chord progression formula is a way of describing the relationship between chords using Roman numerals. Each numeral represents a scale degree in the key, with uppercase numerals denoting major chords and lowercase numerals indicating minor chords.
Using this formula, we can describe progressions that work in any key. For instance, the popular “I-V-vi-IV” progression in C major would be C – G – Am – F. If we transpose this to G major, it becomes G – D – Em – C, maintaining the same harmonic relationship between chords.
How to Generate Chord Progression?
Here’s a step-by-step example:
- Choose a key: Let’s use A major.
- Determine the chords in the key: In A major, we have A (I), Bm (ii), C#m (iii), D (IV), E (V), F#m (vi), and G#° (vii°).
- Select a progression formula: We’ll use the I-vi-IV-V progression.
- Apply the formula to our key: This gives us A – F#m – D – E.
- Experiment with variations: Try substituting chords or changing the order to create different moods.
For example, we might change the last chord to create a I-vi-IV-iv progression (A – F#m – D – Am), which introduces a minor subdominant for a more melancholic feel.
What are the 4 progression chords
The “4 chord progression” refers to a specific sequence of chords that forms the basis of countless pop, rock, and country songs.
This progression is often represented as I-V-vi-IV in Roman numeral notation.
In the key of C major, these four chords would be:
- I – C major
- V – G major
- vi – A minor
- IV – F major
This progression is incredibly versatile and can be found in songs across various genres, from Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin'” to Green Day’s “When I Come Around.” Its popularity stems from its ability to create a sense of movement and resolution while being easy to play and remember.
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