Chord Progression Chart
The ultimate chord progression reference for music producers. Organized by mood and genre so you can find the perfect chords for any beat, instantly.
133+
Progressions
8
Moods
10
Genres
12
Keys
Mood × Genre Matrix
See how many progressions are available for each mood and genre combination. Click any cell to explore.
Popular Progressions by Mood
A quick-reference snapshot of popular progressions in each mood category.
Key Reference Chart
All 12 major keys and common minor keys with their notes. Producer-favorite keys are highlighted.
Major Keys
Common Minor Keys
Producer Tip
C Major and A Minor are the easiest keys to start with since they use only white keys on a keyboard. G Major and E Minor are also hugely popular in modern beats because of their warm feel on guitar and keys.
What is a Chord Progression Chart?
A chord progression chart is a visual reference that organizes chord sequences by key, mood, and style so you can quickly find the right chords for your music. Instead of guessing which chords work together, a chart gives you proven combinations that sound great out of the box.
Traditional chord charts are built for guitar players or pianists learning songs. This chord progression chart is designed specifically for music producers who need to find chord progressions that fit a particular vibe, whether that is a dark trap beat, a chill lo-fi loop, or a hype EDM drop.
Every progression in this chart uses Roman numeral notation (like I - V - vi - IV) so you can transpose it to any key. We also provide the actual chord names in common producer keys so you can plug them straight into your DAW.
How to Use This Chord Progression Chart
Using this chart is straightforward. Here is a step-by-step workflow:
- Pick your mood. Use the Mood x Genre matrix above to find the vibe you want. Each mood category (Sad, Dark, Chill, Hype, etc.) has its own set of curated progressions.
- Choose your genre. Filter by your production style. Trap progressions differ from lo-fi or R&B progressions in terms of harmonic complexity and energy level.
- Pick a progression. Each progression shows Roman numerals and actual chord names. On the full mood pages you can preview how it sounds with our built-in audio player.
- Transpose to your key. Use the key reference chart above or our transposition tool to shift any progression to the key that fits your track.
- Drop it in your DAW. Enter the chords into your MIDI editor, piano roll, or play them on your keyboard. Layer with your drums, bass, and melodies.
Common Chord Progressions Every Producer Should Know
These are the most universal chord progressions across all genres of music. Master these and you will have the harmonic foundation to produce in any style.
The Pop Canon
I - V - vi - IVThe most used progression in modern pop and rock. Instantly familiar and uplifting.
Examples: Let It Be, No Woman No Cry, Someone Like You
The Sad Classic
vi - IV - I - VA rearrangement of the pop canon that starts on the minor chord, giving it a more emotional feel.
Examples: Grenade, Numb, Africa
The 1-5-6-4
I - V - vi - IVWorks in nearly any genre. Great starting point for any beat or song.
Examples: With or Without You, She Will Be Loved
The Trap Minor
i - bVI - bVII - vThe foundation of most trap and emo rap beats. Dark, emotional, and hard-hitting over 808s.
Examples: Lucid Dreams, XO Tour Llif3
The Jazz Turnaround
ii - V - IThe backbone of jazz harmony. Used in lo-fi, neo-soul, and R&B for smooth, sophisticated movement.
Examples: Common in lo-fi beats and neo-soul tracks
The Andalusian Cadence
i - bVII - bVI - VA descending minor progression with a dramatic, cinematic feel. Popular in drill and dark trap.
Examples: Hit 'Em Up, Stairway to Heaven (intro)
The 12-Bar Blues
I - I - I - I - IV - IV - I - I - V - IV - I - VThe foundation of blues, rock, and classic hip-hop. Timeless groove that works with any tempo.
Examples: Johnny B. Goode, Hound Dog
The R&B Smooth
Imaj7 - vi7 - ii7 - V7Extended chords give this progression a lush, warm feeling. Perfect for slow jams and neo-soul.
Examples: Common in Frank Ocean, Daniel Caesar
The EDM Anthem
I - IV - vi - VBuilds energy and resolves with power. The go-to for festival-ready drops and euphoric builds.
Examples: Wake Me Up, Titanium
The Dark Drill
i - iv - i - VMinimal and menacing. Two chords doing all the work with a dominant V for tension. Staple of UK and NY drill.
Examples: Body, Dior
Explore by Mood
Dive deeper into chord progressions tailored to each mood. Each page features audio previews, key transposition, and genre filters.
Explore by Genre
Find chord progressions tailored to your production style. Each genre page includes common keys, scales, BPM ranges, and producer tips.
Unlock the Full Chord Progression Library
This chart shows a fraction of what ChordMap offers. Get access to 133+ progressions with audio preview, key transposition, and genre filtering.