C Pachelbel's Canon

I – V – vi – iii – IV – I – IV – V progression in C major

C major
Chords
Triads7th Chords
Instrument
GuitarUkulele
Harmony
Originalii–V–ISec. Dom.
IC
VG
viAm
iiiEm
IVF
IC
IVF
VG

8-Bar Structure

Bar 1C
Bar 2G
Bar 3Am
Bar 4Em
Bar 5F
Bar 6C
Bar 7F
Bar 8G

Triad Diagrams — C Pachelbel's Canon (Guitar)

C Pachelbel's CanonI – V – vi – iii – IV – I – IV – V

The C Pachelbel Canon progression (C – G – Am – Em – F – C – F – G) is one of the most influential harmonic sequences in music history. Its eight-chord descending bass line has been adapted into pop, rock, and hip-hop. With seventh voicings (CMaj7 – G7 – Am7 – Em7 – FMaj7 – CMaj7 – FMaj7 – G7), it gains a lush, orchestral texture.

Classical / PopEpic & Nostalgic4/4 · 8 bars

Chords (triads): C, G, Am, Em, F.

Chords (7th): CMaj7, G7, Am7, Em7, FMaj7.

Famous songs using this progression

  • Let It Be – The Beatles
  • Memories – Maroon 5
  • Basket Case – Green Day
  • Go West – Village People