E Pachelbel's Canon

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

E major
Chords
Triads7th Chords
Instrument
GuitarUkuleleBass
Harmony
Originalii–V–ISec. Dom.
IE
VB
viC#m
iiiG#m
IVA
IE
IVA
VB

8-Bar Structure

Bar 1E
Bar 2B
Bar 3C#m
Bar 4G#m
Bar 5A
Bar 6E
Bar 7A
Bar 8B

Triad Diagrams — E Pachelbel's Canon (Guitar)

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

The E Pachelbel Canon progression (E – B – C#m – G#m – A – E – A – B) 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 (EMaj7 – B7 – C#m7 – G#m7 – AMaj7 – EMaj7 – AMaj7 – B7), it gains a lush, orchestral texture.

Classical / PopEpic & Nostalgic4/4 · 8 bars

Chords (triads): E, B, C#m, G#m, A.

Chords (7th): EMaj7, B7, C#m7, G#m7, AMaj7.

Famous songs using this progression

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