The 12-bar blues is a foundational chord progression in popular music, characterized by its repetitive structure over 12 measures (bars), typically using just three chords: the tonic (I), subdominant (IV), and dominant (V). Alongside other standard progressions like the I–V–vi–IV and the circle of fifths, these patterns provide the harmonic backbone for countless songs across genres, making them essential knowledge for any musician.
- The 12-bar blues uses a simple, cyclical pattern of I, IV, and V chords over 12 bars.
- Other standard progressions include I–V–vi–IV (pop staple) and the circle of fifths (a sequence moving by fifths).
- These progressions offer predictability and emotional resonance, aiding both composition and improvisation.
The 12-bar blues progression typically uses the I, IV, and V chords.
As the name suggests, the 12-bar blues spans 12 measures.
Common standard progressions include 12-bar blues and I–V–vi–IV.
12-Bar Blues Progression
The 12-bar blues progression is both simple and powerful, making it a staple in blues, rock, jazz, and beyond. It uses three chords derived from the major scale: I (tonic), IV (subdominant), and V (dominant). Typically, each chord is played for a set number of measures within a 12-bar cycle:
Basic 12-Bar Blues Pattern:
| Measures | Chord |
|---|---|
| 1–4 | I |
| 5–6 | IV |
| 7–8 | I |
| 9 | V |
| 10 | IV |
| 11–12 | I |
For example, in the key of C:
C (I) – C – C – C | F (IV) – F | C – C | G (V) | F (IV) | C – C
- Allows for endless variation and improvisation.
- The dominant (V) chord at bar 9 creates tension, resolved by the tonic (I) at the end.
The 12-bar blues progression uses the I, IV, and V chords.
The 12-bar blues spans 12 measures, uses I, IV, V chords, and is common in blues, rock, and jazz.
Other Standard Progressions
I–V–vi–IV Progression
One of the most popular progressions in contemporary pop and rock music is I–V–vi–IV. It creates a pleasing emotional arc—from stability (I), to anticipation (V), to a bittersweet feel (vi), and resolution (IV).
| Chord Order | I | V | vi | IV |
|---|
In C major, this would be: C – G – Am – F
- Used in countless hits across genres.
- Provides a modern, polished sound.
The I–V–vi–IV progression uses the chords I, V, vi, and IV.
The I–V–vi–IV progression is most common in pop and rock music.
Circle of Fifths Progression
The circle of fifths progression moves through chords whose roots are a fifth apart (or fourth, when descending), creating a strong sense of forward motion and resolution.
A simple example:
| C | G | D | A | … |
|---|
- Used extensively in jazz, classical, and some pop music.
- Great for creating tension and release over many bars.
In a circle of fifths progression, chord roots move by intervals of fifths.
Circle of fifths progressions are common in jazz, classical, and some pop music.
Conclusion
The 12-bar blues and other standard chord progressions like I–V–vi–IV and the circle of fifths are essential frameworks that underpin much of modern music. Mastering these patterns not only aids in performance and composition but also unlocks a deeper understanding of how music works across genres.
- 12-bar blues uses I, IV, and V chords over 12 bars for a timeless, versatile sound.
- I–V–vi–IV is a core pop progression that delivers emotional appeal and smooth transitions.
- Circle of fifths progressions provide elegant harmonic movement used in jazz, classical, and beyond.