Angsty Chord Progressions & Guitar Chords

i · iv · III · VI

The iconic grunge progression: i-iv-III-VI with power chords. The pairs of chords (i-iv and III-VI) are each a fourth apart, creating that restless, angsty energy that defined 90s alternative rock.

vi · IV · I · V

The same four chords as the pop axis progression, started on the relative minor instead of the tonic. That one change is the difference between triumphant and aggrieved, which is why it became the default setting for pop punk, post-grunge and every angsty rock single of the late 90s.