C# Lydian II

I – II – IV – I progression in C# major

C♯ major
Chords
Triads7th Chords
Instrument
GuitarUkuleleBass
Harmony
Originalii–V–ISec. Dom.
IC#
IID#
IVF#
IC#

Triad Diagrams — C# Lydian II (Guitar)

C# Lydian III – II – IV – I

The C# Lydian II progression (C# – D# – F# – C#) uses a major II chord borrowed from the Lydian mode, creating a bright, unexpected harmonic lift before settling on the subdominant. Made famous by Lennon and McCartney, it sounds simultaneously familiar and surprising. With seventh voicings (C#Maj7 – D#Maj7 – F#Maj7 – C#Maj7), the Lydian color becomes even more luminous.

Pop / RockEuphoric4/4 · 4 bars

Chords (triads): C#, D#, F#.

Chords (7th): C#Maj7, D#Maj7, F#Maj7.

Famous songs using this progression

  • Eight Days A Week – The Beatles
  • The Boys Are Back In Town – Thin Lizzy
  • Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band – The Beatles