G Pachelbel's Canon

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

G major
Chords
Triads7th Chords
Instrument
GuitarUkuleleBass
Harmony
Originalii–V–ISec. Dom.
IG
VD
viEm
iiiBm
IVC
IG
IVC
VD

8-Bar Structure

Bar 1G
Bar 2D
Bar 3Em
Bar 4Bm
Bar 5C
Bar 6G
Bar 7C
Bar 8D

Triad Diagrams — G Pachelbel's Canon (Guitar)

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

The G Pachelbel Canon progression (G – D – Em – Bm – C – G – C – D) 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 (GMaj7 – D7 – Em7 – Bm7 – CMaj7 – GMaj7 – CMaj7 – D7), it gains a lush, orchestral texture.

Classical / PopEpic & Nostalgic4/4 · 8 bars

Chords (triads): G, D, Em, Bm, C.

Chords (7th): GMaj7, D7, Em7, Bm7, CMaj7.

Famous songs using this progression

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