What is a chord progression?

A chord progression is a sequence of chords played in order. The most common progressions in pop are I–V–vi–IV and I–IV–V, which appear in thousands of songs across genres.

How do I generate a chord progression?

Pick a key and choose a pattern. The generator shows the chords in that key so you can hear how they move and decide what fits the mood of your song.

What key should I write in?

Any key works — the relationships between chords are the same in all keys. C major is often chosen for beginners because it has no sharps or flats. Choose based on the instrument range or vocal key that suits the performer.

Chord Progression Generator

Pick a key, hear classic progressions: I–V–vi–IV and more.

artyphonic.com/tools/chord-progressionFree · no sign-in

Build chord progressions in a key, hear how they move, and use common patterns as a starting point for songs. Made for quick writing sessions where you need harmonic ideas without breaking flow.

Diatonic progression builder

Ready

Key

Mode

Active progression · C majorI–V–vi–IV

ICC·E·G

VGG·B·D

viAmA·C·E

IVFF·A·C

Tempo90 BPM

Pop classic — "Let It Be", "With or Without You"

Diatonic chord palette · click to add

All 7 chords in C major

Preset progressions

8 major progressions

How to use

Pick a key (root note) and a mode (major or minor).
Choose a preset progression, or build your own by clicking chords in the palette.
Hit Play — each chord rings for a half-note at the chosen tempo.

Reading Roman numerals

Uppercase = major chord. Lowercase = minor. ° = diminished.

I, IV, V — the bright "home" chords.
ii, vi — the moody minors.

Writing tips

Start with I. Pop and rock almost always do.
End on I for resolution, V for tension.
The vi chord is the secret weapon of sad pop — the relative minor.

Need a single chord?

See the notes + fingerings for one chord in isolation at the Chord Finder →

Frequently asked questions

What is a chord progression?: A chord progression is a sequence of chords played in order. The most common progressions in pop are I–V–vi–IV and I–IV–V, which appear in thousands of songs across genres.
How do I generate a chord progression?: Pick a key and choose a pattern. The generator shows the chords in that key so you can hear how they move and decide what fits the mood of your song.
What key should I write in?: Any key works — the relationships between chords are the same in all keys. C major is often chosen for beginners because it has no sharps or flats. Choose based on the instrument range or vocal key that suits the performer.

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