Deceptive Cadence

I → V → vi

Position
C chord diagramGuitar chord fingering for C: string 6: muted, string 5: fret 3, string 4: fret 2, string 3: open, string 2: fret 1, string 1: open×C
G chord diagramGuitar chord fingering for G: string 6: fret 3, string 5: fret 2, string 4: open, string 3: open, string 2: open, string 1: fret 3G
Am chord diagramGuitar chord fingering for Am: string 6: muted, string 5: open, string 4: fret 2, string 3: fret 2, string 2: fret 1, string 1: open×Am
85

About

The 'plot twist' of music. When you expect resolution to the I chord but get the vi instead. Creates surprise, tension, and emotional depth.

Songs using this progression

  • A Day in the Life — The Beatles
  • Every Breath You Take — The Police
  • Prelude in E minor — Chopin
PopRockClassicalbittersweetemotionalunexpecteddramatic

Related progressions

Sad Ballad (Axis Progression)
I → V → vi → IV
PopRock
Anime Opening (Royal Road)
IV → V → iii → vi
J-PopAnime OST