G 12 Bar Blues

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

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

12-Bar Structure

Bar 1G
Bar 2G
Bar 3G
Bar 4G
Bar 5C
Bar 6C
Bar 7G
Bar 8G
Bar 9D
Bar 10C
Bar 11G
Bar 12D

Triad Diagrams — G 12 Bar Blues (Guitar)

G 12 Bar BluesI – I – I – I – IV – IV – I – I – V – IV – I – V

The G 12 Bar Blues progression (G – G – G – G – C – C – G – G – D – C – G – D) is the universal foundation of the blues. Using only three chords over twelve bars, it has generated more classic songs than any other form. With dominant sevenths (GMaj7 – GMaj7 – GMaj7 – GMaj7 – CMaj7 – CMaj7 – GMaj7 – GMaj7 – D7 – CMaj7 – GMaj7 – D7), it delivers the authentic blues sound.

BluesGrit & Soul4/4 · 12 bars

Chords (triads): G, C, D.

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

Famous songs using this progression

  • Johnny B. Goode – Chuck Berry
  • The Thrill Is Gone – B.B. King
  • Pride and Joy – Stevie Ray Vaughan