Starting a new song, but lacking in inspiring chord progressions? Try these on for size!

Let’s run through some quick and dirty chord progressions you can use right this second to write a song. Alright? Alright! Let’s get playing!

We’re going to look at these progressions as both numbers and actual chord names in the key of C. If you’re familiar with the Nashville Number System, then you can use these numbers to transpose these progressions into any key you please.

Ol Faithful

Arguably the most popular pop chord progression, or a variation thereof:

Nashville Numbers: 1 5 6m 4
Key of C: C D Am F

Movement

A circular feeling chord progression that has lots of movement and feeling:

Nashville Numbers: 6m 5 4 5
Key of C: Am G F G

Pop Uptempo

A variation of Ol’ Faithful that we hear all the time on the radio:

Nashville Numbers: 1 6m 4 5
Key of C: C Am F G

Majorly Major

Sing-songy and great for upbeat positive songs. Keep in mind, however, this can feel a bit repetitive is used in every section of your song:

Nashville Numbers:  1 5 4 5
Key of C: C G F G

Want to get even more musical inspiration and songwriting prompts? Join the 5 in 5 Song Challenge!

We’ll be writing 5 songs in 5 days, rapid fire. I’ll give you a prompt to start from, you just have to show up and write. You can find more info and a sing up form here, or simply register below.

Grab your spot now – we do these challenged throughout the year, so if you can’t make this month’s, you’ll be notified of the next one. Hope to see you inside!