The 4 Chords Behind Hundreds of Songs and How to Reharmonize

Introduction

The world of music is often built on a handful of foundational elements, and chord progressions are among the most crucial. The I–V–vi–IV progression, for instance, has been the bedrock of countless pop hits, from classics to contemporary chart-toppers. In this article, we will delve into the four chords that underpin hundreds of songs and explore reharmonization techniques to breathe new life into your compositions. Don't forget to check out our Chord Progression Chart for more insights!

I–V–vi–IV Variations

The I–V–vi–IV progression is a staple in pop music, often described as the "four chords of pop". This sequence can be found in numerous tracks across various genres, showcasing its universal appeal. Here’s a breakdown of the progression:

I (Tonic): The root chord that establishes the key

V (Dominant): Creates tension leading back to the tonic

vi (Relative Minor): Adds emotional depth

IV (Subdominant): Provides a smooth transition back to the tonic

Examples of I–V–vi–IV in Popular Songs

"With or Without You" by U2

"Let It Be" by The Beatles

"Someone Like You" by Adele

These songs illustrate how this simple progression can evoke powerful emotions, making it a favorite among songwriters.

Exploring Variations

To keep your compositions fresh, consider variations of the I–V–vi–IV progression:

Inversion: Change the bass notes to create a different feel.

Rhythmic Alteration: Adjust the timing of chord changes.

Extended Chords: Use seventh or ninth chords to add complexity.

Secondary Dominants

An effective way to enhance your chord progressions is through the use of secondary dominants. These are dominant chords (V) that lead to chords other than the tonic, creating a temporary modulation that adds interest and tension. Here's how to incorporate them:

Identify the chord you want to target (e.g., ii, iii, vi, etc.).

Use its dominant chord (V/ii, V/iii, V/vi) to precede it.

Resolve back to your original progression.

Examples of Using Secondary Dominants

If you’re in the key of C major and want to target the Dm chord (ii), use the A7 chord (V7/ii) before it:

- Original: C - G - Am - F

- With Secondary Dominant: C - G - A7 - Dm - F

This technique can create a richer harmonic palette, keeping listeners engaged throughout the track.

Minor Color

Incorporating minor chords can add emotional depth and complexity to your music. While the I–V–vi–IV progression uses a major relative minor, exploring other minor chords can yield exciting results. Here are some tips for adding minor color:

Substituting Minor for Major: Replace major chords with their minor counterparts to shift the mood. For example, instead of C - G - Am - F, try C - G - Dm - F.

Use Borrowed Chords: Borrow chords from the parallel minor key to introduce unexpected colors.

Experiment with Modal Interchange: Combine chords from different modes to create a unique sound.

Examples of Songs Using Minor Color

"Creep" by Radiohead uses a haunting progression that highlights the minor quality effectively.

"Shape of You" by Ed Sheeran incorporates minor chords for a more rhythmic and engaging sound.

Conclusion

Understanding the foundational pop chord progressions, such as I–V–vi–IV, and knowing how to creatively manipulate them through secondary dominants and minor color can significantly enhance your music production skills. By exploring reharmonization, you can breathe new life into well-worn progressions and craft songs that resonate with your audience. For additional ideas and inspiration, be sure to check out our Chord Progression Chart and elevate your compositions today!