So – as represented by the bold text in the above diagram – a I-IV-V in C major equates to the chords C, F and G. In D major, these chords would transpose up to D, G and A, and so on.

Besides chord extensions, we can also use substitutions. One common one is replacing the V with its tritone. So, in this case, we have G-D as a fifth, and a lowered half step to get a tritone is ...

Step 7: Deceptive cadences (aka interrupted cadences) are formed by a V chord followed by any chord other than the I chord. Deceptive cadences always come as something of a surprise, since you’re ...

We’ve tabbed out three chord progressions for you to try out here. Of course, experimentation is the name of the game, so use these as springboards for your own ideas. Chord progression numbers ...

The V chord is even more volatile relative to the tonic, and it feels as though a strong gravitational force is pulling us back to the I chord for resolution.