C Pop Progression

I – V – vi – IV progression in C major

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

Triad Diagrams — C Pop Progression (Guitar)

C Pop ProgressionI – V – vi – IV

The C I–V–vi–IV progression (C – G – Am – F) is the most widely used chord sequence in modern pop music. On guitar, these chords create a perfect balance of brightness and emotional depth. With seventh chords (CMaj7 – G7 – Am7 – FMaj7), it gains a richer, more sophisticated texture.

Pop / RockHope & Joy4/4 · 4 bars

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

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

Famous songs using this progression

  • Let It Be – The Beatles
  • No Woman No Cry – Bob Marley
  • Someone Like You – Adele
  • With or Without You – U2