7 Common Chord Progressions in Pop Music

TLDRThis video explores seven popular chord progressions used in pop music, explaining their sound and why they work. From the famous four chord progression to the andalusian cadence, these progressions create tension and resolution, resulting in catchy and memorable songs.

Key insights

🔑The four chord progression is one of the most commonly used progressions in pop music, providing a catchy and familiar sound.

🎵The andalusian cadence, also known as the flamenco progression, adds a Spanish flair to songs and is commonly used in flamenco and other styles of music.

🚫The doo-wop changes, also known as the 50s chord progression, create a nostalgic and upbeat feel often associated with 1950s music.

🔗The mixolydian vamp is a chord progression that immerses the listener in the mixolydian mode, creating a bluesy and rock 'n' roll sound.

🎶The 6-4-1-5 progression is a minor key variation of the famous four chord progression and adds a melancholic touch to songs.

Q&A

What is the most commonly used chord progression in pop music?

The four chord progression is one of the most commonly used chord progressions in pop music. It consists of the I, V, vi, and IV chords and provides a catchy and familiar sound.

What is the andalusian cadence?

The andalusian cadence, also known as the flamenco progression, is a chord progression associated with flamenco music from Spain. It consists of the i, VII, VI, and V chords and adds a Spanish flair to songs.

What is the doo-wop changes or the 50s chord progression?

The doo-wop changes, also known as the 50s chord progression, is a chord progression commonly used in 1950s music. It consists of the I, V, vi, and IV chords and creates a nostalgic and upbeat feel.

What is the mixolydian vamp?

The mixolydian vamp is a chord progression that immerses the listener in the mixolydian mode, which has a bluesy and rock 'n' roll sound. It consists of the I, bVII, IV, and V chords.

What is the 6-4-1-5 progression?

The 6-4-1-5 progression is a chord progression commonly used in minor keys. It consists of the vi, IV, I, and V chords and adds a melancholic touch to songs.

Timestamped Summary

00:00Introduction to the seven common chord progressions in pop music

02:18Explanation of the famous four chord progression and examples of songs that use it

06:32Introduction to the andalusian cadence and its association with flamenco music

09:19Overview of the doo-wop changes or the 50s chord progression

11:48Explanation of the mixolydian vamp and its bluesy sound

13:43Introduction to the 6-4-1-5 progression and its minor key variation