Sad Ballad (Axis Progression)

I → V → vi → IV

Position
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
D chord diagramGuitar chord fingering for D: string 6: muted, string 5: muted, string 4: open, string 3: fret 2, string 2: fret 3, string 1: fret 2××D
Em chord diagramGuitar chord fingering for Em: string 6: open, string 5: fret 2, string 4: fret 2, string 3: open, string 2: open, string 1: openEm
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
72

About

The most popular progression in modern pop music. Evokes a bittersweet, emotional feeling that works for both uplifting and melancholic songs.

Songs using this progression

  • Let It Be — The Beatles
  • No Woman No Cry — Bob Marley
  • With or Without You — U2
PopRockBallademotionalbittersweetreflective

Related progressions

Pop Punk Anthem
I → V → vi → IV
Pop PunkEmo
Epic Cinematic
vi → IV → I → V
Film ScoreCinematic