Sad chord progressions

Sad progressions lean on minor chords, but the saddest ones often move between minor and major. These work for emotional pop, ballads, lo-fi and melodic electronic music.

  • Free
  • No account
  • Runs in your browser
  • Any key
  • MIDI download

The sad pop loop

C major
AmviFIVCIGV

vi, IV, I, V. The four-chord loop started on the minor chord. In C: Am, F, C, G.

Open in the generator →

Minor and longing

A minor
AmiDmivAmiEmv

i, iv, i, v. Stays in minor the whole way, quiet and heavy.

Open in the generator →

The harmonic minor turn

A harmonic minor
AmiFVIDmivEV

i, VI, iv, V. The major V at the end pulls hard back to the first chord.

Open in the generator →

Bittersweet

A minor
AmiFVICIIIGVII

i, VI, III, VII. Minor home chord, major chords around it.

Open in the generator →

Making them sound like sad

  • Slow the tempo down and let each chord ring for a full bar or two.
  • Use a soft piano or pad, and keep the melody on chord notes at the start of each bar.
  • Turn on the sevenths for a sadder, more open sound.

Every progression on the site, in every key, as MIDI in one zip: free MIDI chord progressions.

More chord progressions

Chord progressions by key

Play these chords with VISIONS OF TOMORROW →71 Serum 2 presets for house and techno, with pads, keys, plucks and stabs made for chords like these. $29.

Or start with the free pack: 24 sounds from all three packs, and a 25% code for the full packs a few days later.

Questions

What makes a chord progression sound sad?

Minor chords, especially when they follow major ones, and slow movement. The minor sixth chord (vi) in a major key is one of the saddest sounds in pop.

What is the saddest key?

No key is sad by itself; minor keys and minor chords are. Pick a key that suits the singer or the instrument.

Can I use these progressions in my songs?

Yes. Chord progressions cannot be owned, so use them freely.

More free tools

Guides