Chord Progression Generator

What Is the Chord Progression Generator?

The Chord Progression Generator is an interactive tool that helps you create chord progressions for songs and musical compositions. Whether you're writing in pop, rock, jazz, or other styles, this tool gives you a quick and effective way to build harmonic structures suited to your desired mood and sound.

You select a key, choose a scale type, pick a genre, and customize the complexity of your chords. The generator then creates a progression that fits your settings. It also includes features like playback, inversion options, and the ability to export or save your favorite progressions.

Why Use a Chord Progression Generator?

Chord progressions are the foundation of musical harmony. They influence how a song feels and flows. This tool helps you:

• Create music ideas faster
• Experiment with different genres and keys
• Discover new chord combinations
• Learn common progressions used in popular music
• Export progressions for use in songwriting or music production

How to Use the Generator

Follow these steps to generate a custom chord progression:

1. Choose a key: Select the root note of your composition.
2. Select a scale: Pick from major, minor, or modal scales like Dorian or Mixolydian.
3. Pick a genre: Choose a genre preset for style-appropriate progressions, or select "Random" to explore new ideas.
4. Set the number of chords: Decide how long you want your progression to be (2 to 8 chords).
5. Adjust complexity: Choose between basic triads, extended 7th chords, or advanced 9th/13th voicings.
6. Use advanced options (optional): Add features like inversions, modal borrowing, or secondary dominants for more color.
7. Click "Generate Progression": The tool will display your chord progression, with Roman numeral analysis and possible variations.
8. Click "Play": Hear your progression. You can also copy, save, or export it in various formats.

Chord Progression Formula

Chord progressions are typically built using scale degrees from the selected key. The generator uses this logic:

• Major Scale: I – ii – iii – IV – V – vi – vii°
• Minor Scale: i – ii° – III – iv – v – VI – VII

Each chord is chosen based on its position in the scale, and complexity is added depending on your settings. Common progressions include:

• I–IV–V: Classic progression used in rock and blues
• I–V–vi–IV: Widely used in modern pop
• ii–V–I: Essential in jazz music

Key Features

• Genre presets for quick inspiration
• Playback option to hear chords
• Roman numeral and Nashville number export formats
• Chord complexity controls: triads, 7ths, 9ths, and more
• Optional features like modal borrowing and cadence selection
• Save and reload progressions for future use

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Do I need music theory knowledge to use this?

No. The tool is user-friendly and provides hints like Roman numeral analysis and common use cases. It’s suitable for beginners and advanced users alike.

Can I use these progressions in my own songs?

Yes! All generated progressions are yours to use. Export them and use them in your songwriting, production, or performance.

What if I want a unique or experimental sound?

Try selecting the "Random" genre option, enable modal borrowing, or use advanced chord types. You can also modify progressions using built-in variations.

Can I save my progressions?

Yes. Use the “Save Progression” button, and your progressions will be stored locally in your browser.

How does the "Play" button work?

Click "Play" to hear the generated progression using simple synthesized tones. Use this to get a feel for the harmony before exporting.

How This Tool Can Help You

Whether you’re stuck in a creative block or exploring new sounds, this tool helps you move forward. It provides instant ideas, helps you understand how chords work together, and gives you a foundation to build melodies, lyrics, and rhythms around. Use it to practice songwriting, test harmonic ideas, or simply spark inspiration when starting a new project.