25 Rock Chord Progressions to Improve Your Music | Learn How

Chord progressions are at the heart of rock music, providing the harmonic framework for melodies and lyrics. Chord progressions are made up of two or more chords that are played in succession, and they often follow a certain pattern.

Chord progressions provide the backbone of a song, and they can be used to create an atmosphere, establish a mood, and add depth and texture to the music.

Rock music has been heavily influenced by blues, folk, and other genres, and these influences can be seen in the chord progressions used in rock music.

Blues is perhaps one of the most influential genres in rock music, and its influence can be seen in the use of dominant seventh and minor sixth chords. Folk music can also be heard in the use of major seventh and minor ninth chords, as well as simpler progressions like I-IV-V.

With all of these influences, there are many different types of rock chord progressions. Here are 25 of the most common rock chord progressions that can be used in a variety of rock songs:

Basic Music Theory for Rock Chord Progressions

When it comes to rock music, chord progressions are a huge part of the sound. Whether you are writing a song or just playing along to a favorite song, understanding how to create chord progressions is an essential part of music theory.

To understand rock chord progressions, it is important to have a basic understanding of key signatures and diatonic chords. Additionally, power chords and barre chords play an important role in rock music.

A key signature is a set of musical notes that define the tonality of a song. A key signature can be major or minor and each key signature will have a set of seven notes and five chords, called the diatonic chords.

A diatonic chord progression simply means a chord progression that is based on the key signature. Diatonic chords are built from the notes of the key signature and are the foundation for many popular chord progressions in rock music.

Power chords are commonly used in rock and metal music. They are formed by playing two notes of the same pitch an octave apart, such as a root note and the fifth. Power chords are popular because they provide simple harmony without the need for barre chords.

Barre chords are also important in rock music. A barre chord is a type of chord played by pressing down multiple strings of the guitar with one finger. This allows the guitarist to create a variety of different chord shapes. Barre chords are essential for creating more complex and interesting chord progressions.

Classic Rock Chord Progressions

I – IV – V (Example: C – F – G)

The I-IV-V chord progression, also known as the “50s progression,” is one of the most iconic progressions in music history. It has been used extensively in genres such as rock and roll, rhythm and blues, and country.

The I-IV-V progression is comprised of three primary chords which are played in succession. In the example of C-F-G, the chords C, F, and G are the primary chords.

The I-IV-V progression has a strong sense of resolution, with the resolution being felt most clearly on the V chord.

This progression is often used in the context of a 12-bar blues progression and is a very popular tool for songwriters looking to create a classic rock sound.

Additionally, the I-IV-V progression is easily modifiable, allowing for the addition of passing chords and extensions to help create a more interesting sound.

I – V – vi – IV (Example: C – G – Am – F)

This I – V – vi – IV chord progression (Example: C – G – Am – F) is quite common in many genres of music, and is often used to create a memorable and catchy melody.

It is an especially popular choice for pop music, where the combination of I and V chords create a strong sense of resolution.

The addition of the vi and IV chords gives the progression a distinct flavor, as it moves in unexpected directions and creates unique melodic possibilities.

This chord progression can also be used in many other genres, from classical to rock and jazz. It can be used to create a sense of tension and resolution or to add complexity and interest to the music.

ii – IV – I – V (Example: Dm – F – C – G)

The ii – IV – I – V progression is a very common chord progression used in popular music. This progression is often combined with minor pentatonic scales as it offers a very recognizable sound and allows for a lot of melodic experimentation.

The progression starts with an ii chord, which is usually a minor chord (in our example, the Dm). This chord sets up the melody and leads into the IV chord, which is usually a major chord (in our example, the F).

The IV chord is followed by the I chord, which is usually a major chord (in our example, the C). Finally, the V chord is a dominant chord (in our example, the G).

This progression has been used in countless songs in many different genres, from rock to pop to jazz. It is also often used in the blues genre, as it provides a great foundation for improvisation. Additionally, the progression is often used in country music, providing a strong foundation for the lyrics.

vi – IV – I – V (Example: Am – F – C – G)

This vi – IV – I – V progression (Example: Am – F – C – G) is a common chord progression used in many genres of music. It is a great tool for songwriters, as it is easy to remember and can be used to create powerful musical moments.

The progression is made up of four chords, each one with a different purpose. The first chord, vi, is a tonic chord that sets the key of the song.

The next chord, IV, is a dominant chord that helps to create tension and leads the song into the third chord, I.

The fourth chord is the V, a secondary dominant chord that resolves back to the tonic chord, vi. By using this progression, songwriters can easily create effective and memorable musical moments.

I – vi – ii – V (Example: C – Am – Dm – G)

The I – vi – ii – V progression is a classic chord progression used in many popular songs across a variety of genres. The progression is made up of four chords, each a fourth apart, starting with the root note of the key.

For example, an I – vi – ii – V progression in the key of C major would be C – Am – Dm – G. This progression is often used in jazz, pop, and rock as well as other genres to create a slightly melancholic but uplifting sound.

It is especially popular in ballads and slower, more introspective songs. Many classic songs have used this progression, including Simon and Garfunkel’s “The Sound of Silence” and U2’s “With or Without You.” The I – vi – ii – V progression is a great way to add depth and emotion to any song.

Rock Chord Progressions with Extended Chords

I7 – IV7 – V7 (Example: C7 – F7 – G7)

The I7 – IV7 – V7 chord progression, represented by a C7 – F7 – G7 in this example, is a classic chord progression used in many styles of music, from jazz to rock and pop.

This simple progression uses three chords – the tonic (I7), subdominant (IV7), and dominant (V7) – and can be used to create interesting and vibrant musical phrases.

The I7 – IV7 – V7 chord progression can be extended by adding additional chords to the standard three chord progression, creating a more complex sound with multiple harmonic layers.

Adding extended chords such as the bVI7, bII7, and bVII7 can create a subtle yet interesting musical texture, while adding extended chords from the minor key (i.e. the minor II7, III7, and VI7) can create a more intense and dramatic sound.

This chord progression can be used to great effect in many different genres of music, and is a great way to add some additional flavor and complexity to any musical phrase.

ii7 – V7 – I7 (Example: Dm7 – G7 – C7)

The chord progression ii7 – V7 – I7 (Example: Dm7 – G7 – C7) is one of the most common progressions used in music.

This chord progression is often referred to as the “50s progression” because it was so popular during the 1950s in popular music.

This chord progression is often used in blues and jazz music, as well as many forms of pop music. It is a very versatile progression and can be used to create both uplifting and melancholic sounds.

The ii7 chord usually acts as a pre-dominant chord, leading into the dominant V7 chord, which then resolves into the tonic I7. This progression creates a sense of motion and tension that resolves into a feeling of finality.

Imaj7 – IVmaj7 – V7 (Example: Cmaj7 – Fmaj7 – G7)

The Imaj7 – IVmaj7 – V7 progression is a very common musical progression in many genres of music. In this example, Cmaj7 – Fmaj7 – G7, this progression can be heard in a variety of styles such as jazz, pop, classical, and more.

This progression is also known as a “root progression” because the root of each chord is in the same key. This progression provides a nice sense of harmonic movement because the chords are related to each other but yet, provide some contrast.

Each of the chords within this progression has a different sound and feel which can be used to create interesting musical passages. This progression is often used as an accompaniment to a melody, to provide structure, or to create tension and release.

Rock Chord Progressions with Chromatic Passing Chords

I – #Idim7 – ii – V (Example: C – C#dim7 – Dm – G)

A rock chord progression I – #Idim7 – ii – V is a great way to add texture and interest to a song. Since the #Idim7 is a chromatic passing chord, it provides a bridge between the I and ii chords, creating a smooth yet unexpected sound.

This can help to give a song a sense of energy and momentum, making it more exciting than a traditional I-IV-V progression.

Additionally, the chromatic passing chord creates tension that can be resolved with the V chord, making it the perfect ending to the progression.

This chord progression is quite versatile and can be used in many styles of rock music, from classic rock to modern punk. Experimenting with this progression can help to create a truly unique and memorable sound.

vi – V – #Vdim7 – VI (Example: Am – G – G#dim7 – A)

This rock chord progression vi – V – #Vdim7 – VI is a great way to give a song a bluesy sound. It starts out with a minor chord, which is the vi (in the example Am).

This minor chord sets the tone for the rest of the progression. Next, the V (in the example G) is played, which is a major chord that gives the song a lift and creates an emotional contrast.

The #Vdim7 (in the example G#dim7) is a dissonant chord that adds tension to the chord progression.

Finally, the VI (in example A) is played, which is another major chord that brings the progression back to a resolution. This chord progression is a great way to add a bluesy sound to any rock song.

Rock Chord Progressions with Modal Interchange

I – bIII – IV – iv (Example: C – Eb – F – Fm)

This rock chord progression I – bIII – IV – iv is a great way to introduce modal interchange into a song.

Modal interchange is the practice of using chords from different scales, such as the major scale and the minor scale, to add interest and harmonic complexity to a song.

In this case, the progression starts with the tonic chord in the major key, followed by the major third chord in the minor key, then the fourth chord in the major key, and finally the fourth chord in the minor key.

This creates a unique sound that can be used to explore different musical ideas and take the song in a new direction. This progression is especially useful in rock music, as it adds a certain flavor and energy that can help to drive the song forward and keep it engaging.

I – bVII – IV (Example: C – Bb – F)

This rock chord progression, I – bVII – IV, is a powerful and popular progression in many genres of music. This progression is rooted in the classic I-IV-V blues progression, but adds in a bVII chord for an added twist.

This progression can be heard in a variety of rock and blues tunes, and its often used to great effect in rock ballads.

It’s a versatile progression that can be used in various contexts, and is often used to build tension and create a sense of anticipation.

The dark minor tonality of the bVII chord helps to build suspense and creates a sense of drama when placed in the context of a rock song. By using this progression, a songwriter can craft an emotionally intense and powerful song.

Rock Chord Progressions with Secondary Dominants

I – V/IV – IV – V (Example: C – C7 – F – G)

The I – V/IV – IV – V chord progression is a classic in rock music. This progression, also known as a “circle progression”, is perfect for creating a sense of energy and excitement.

The use of the secondary dominant, C7, gives the progression a bluesy feel that works well for rock music.

This progression is popular amongst blues and rock musicians of all genres, as it creates an exciting, powerful sound.

The cadence of this progression also offers a great deal of tension, followed by a strong sense of release. This makes it an excellent choice for creating a powerful climax in a song.

I – V/vi – vi – IV (Example: C – E7 – Am – F)

This rock chord progression I – V/vi – vi – IV is a great way to add some interesting tonal qualities to your rock tunes.

The I chord (C) provides a strong root chord, while the V/vi (E7) can be used to add a bit of tension, taking the listener away from the tonic before returning to the vi (Am) chord.

The vi chord can be used to create a sense of harmony and resolution, whilst the IV (F) chord helps to bring things to a close. This progression gives the listener a sense of journey, tension, release, and resolution.

Power Chord Progressions in Rock Music

I5 – IV5 – V5 (Example: C5 – F5 – G5)

The I5 – IV5 – V5 rock chord progression is one of the most commonly used progressions in rock music, It has been used in countless songs over the years, from classic rock anthems to modern rock hits.

This progression is comprised of three chords, with the I5 (also known as the tonic) being the root of the progression, the IV5 (also known as the subdominant) being the second chord, and the V5 (also known as the dominant) being the third chord. An example of this progression in the key of C would be C5 – F5 – G5.

The power and energy of this progression come from the fact that the I5, IV5, and V5 chords are all major chords, which creates a bright sound. In addition, the V5 chord has a powerful effect when it is resolved to the I5 chord, and this is why it is so commonly used in rock music.

Finally, another great feature of the I5 – IV5 – V5 progression is its flexibility. It can be transposed to different keys, used in different rhythms and tempos, and even used in different genres of music, such as blues, folk, and country. The possibilities are endless.

I5 – bIII5 – IV5 (Example: C5 – Eb5 – F5)

The chord progression I5 – bIII5 – IV5 can be written out as A5 – Cb5 – D5. This chord progression consists of the root of the scale (A5) followed by a minor third (Cb5) and then a perfect fourth (D5).

This creates a powerful rock sound that is often used in rock ballads and hard rock music. The A5 is a power chord, consisting of two notes (A and E), while the Cb5 and D5 both consist of three notes (Cb, E, and Gb for Cb5, and D, F#, and A for D5).

This chord progression is often used to create a driving, uplifting sound in rock music.

vi5 – IV5 – I5 – V5 (Example: A5 – F5 – C5 – G5)

This rock chord progression of vi5 – IV5 – I5 – V5 is a great way to add a powerful and captivating sound to any song.

The vi5 chord is typically used as a passing chord, providing a sense of tension while transitioning between other chords. The IV5 and I5 chords create a strong foundation, emphasizing the tonic key of the song.

The V5 is a strong and powerful chord that adds a sense of resolution to the song. Together, these four chords create an exciting and energetic sound that can help create memorable songs.

Modern and Alternative Rock Chord Progressions

I – III – IV – iv (Example: C – E – F – Fm)

This rock chord progression I – III – IV – iv (Example: C – E – F – Fm) is a smooth and modern sounding progression. It is a great way to add variety to any song.

The I chord is the root chord of the key and is often the most important chord in the progression. In the example given, the I chord is C major. The III chord is a major chord of the third scale degree and in the example given is E major.

The IV chord is a major chord of the fourth scale degree and in the example given is F major. Finally, the iv chord is a minor chord of the fourth scale degree and in the example given is F minor.

The I – III – IV – iv progression is a great way to create tension and resolution. The I chord, being the root chord, gives the progression a sense of stability. The III chord adds a sense of movement and progression, while the IV chord further builds tension. Finally, the iv chord provides the resolution and a sense of closure to the progression.

This rock chord progression can be used in many different musical styles, including modern rock, alternative rock, pop, and more. It is a great way to give a song an interesting harmonic structure and add a modern and unique sound.

i – VII – VI – III (Example: Am – G – F – C)

The details for this rock chord progression i – VII – VI – III are as follows: A minor (Am), G Major (G), F Major (F), and C Major (C). This creates a classic rock progression, often used in popular songs.

This particular progression is known for creating a sense of tension and release, as the dominant seventh chord (in this case, G) leads back to the tonic (in this case, A minor).

With each chord, it’s important to remember the key signatures and context of the progression, as this will have an effect on how the progression is perceived.

I – V – II – IV (Example: C – G – D – F)

This chord progression is a typical rock ‘n’ roll pattern. It begins with the tonic, the I chord, and then moves to the dominant, V chord.

The II chord is the subdominant and creates a sense of tension before finally resolving to the IV chord, which acts as a release.

This progression is used in countless rock songs and is a great way to create a classic rock sound.

The example given, C – G – D – F, is a particularly popular progression and is used to great effect in a number of classic tunes.

The I – V – II – IV chord progression is a vital building block of classic rock and will continue to be a popular choice amongst rock musicians.

Progressive Rock Chord Progressions

I – ii – iii – IV (Example: C – Dm – Em – F)

The I – ii – iii – IV Rock chord progression is a popular and powerful progression in the Progressive Rock genre. The progression begins with the I chord (in this example, C), and moves through the ii chord (Dm), the iii chord (Em), and finally the IV chord (F).

The dissonant sound created by the movement between these chords creates an exciting and dynamic soundscape for the listener.

The progression is often used to build tension and momentum as the song progresses, and is a great tool for creating memorable musical passages.

Additionally, the progression often has a sense of resolution when it returns to the I chord, which can give the music a sense of completion. This Progressive Rock chord progression is a great way to add depth and complexity to a song.

i – III – iv – VI (Example: Am – C – Dm – F)

This rock chord progression is perfect for a driving rock song with a classic power chord sound. The i – III – iv – VI progression allows for an intensifying sound as it moves from the minor to major tonalities.

This is a great progression to use in a rock setting, as it is easy to play and creates a great buildup from the minor to the major tonality.

The i – III – iv – VI progression is a great way to create a powerful and driving sound in your rock music.

Additionally, you can use the progression to create a sense of tension and release as the minor chords provide a darker atmosphere before moving to the major chords which embody a brighter and more upbeat sound.

I – bII – IV – V (Example: C – Db – F – G)

This rock chord progression consists of a tonic chord, a flat second, a fourth chord, and a fifth chord. In the key of C, this progression would be C – Db – F – G.

This progression is a common rock chord progression, and is used in many popular songs. It has an edgy, blues-y sound and has a strong, driving feel. It is often used in the chorus of a song, serving to give it an increased sense of energy.

i – III – #iv° – VI (Example: Am – C – D#° – F)

This rock chord progression is composed of a tonic chord (i), a sub-dominant chord (III), a fully-diminished chord (#iv°), and a dominant chord (VI).

Using the example of Am – C – D#° – F, the progression could be described as A minor – C major – D# diminished – F major.

The tonic chord (A minor) sets the tonal center for the progression, while the sub-dominant chord (C major) helps to transition to the next chord in the progression.

The fully-diminished chord (D# diminished) provides a moment of harmonic tension, before resolving into the dominant chord (F major), which helps to bring the progression to a close.

I – IV – bV – V (Example: C – F – Gb – G)

This rock chord progression of I – IV – bV – V is a classic rock progression that has been used in countless songs from the 1950s to the present day.

It is a variation of the standard I – IV – V progression, which has been a staple of rock and roll since its inception.

The difference in this progression is that the V chord is reversed, so instead of being a major chord it is a minor chord – the bV.

This creates a more bluesy sound, and is often used to add a sense of tension or drama to a song.

As well as being used in rock, this chord progression is also common in blues and country music. It is a great way to add an interesting twist to the standard I – IV – V chord progression, and can be used to create great melodic and harmonic variations.

Related:

• 15 Minor Chord Progressions You Need to Master | Ultimate Guide
• 20+ R&B Chord Progressions for Producers and Songwriters
• 20 Sad Chord Progressions | Create Unique Musical Moods

Conclusion

In conclusion, rock chord progressions are essential in creating the iconic sound of rock music. They provide a powerful and dynamic range of sounds that can be used to create unique and memorable pieces of music.

Experimentation with different chords and progressions is essential for any aspiring rock musician looking to develop their own style and sound. With some practice and creativity, anyone can start writing great rock songs with custom chord progressions.

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