Chords not only provide the foundation for melody but can also be used strategically to emphasise certain parts of your song, give the song momentum, or provide resolution.
Starting from the basics: all songs are written in a key (sometimes more than one, but let’s start with one key). The chords within that key are given roman numerals based on their position. For example:
In the key of C major:
- The ‘I’ chord is C major.
- The ‘IV’ chord is F major (C,D,E,F = 4, hence the IV chord)
- The ‘V’ chord is G major (C,D,E,F,G = 5, hence the V chord)
The ‘I’ chord provides a sense of ‘home’, rest and resolution, while certain other chords create tension that wants to resolve to the ‘I’ chord, they pull towards it musically. You will be able to hear this.
Songwriters make use of the natural function of chords (e.g. that the ‘I’ sounds like home) to achieve the effects they want in their music. To make listeners feel like the song is stopping, or gaining momentum, or to deliver an element of surprise etc.
Traditionally there are certain combinations of chords that really emphasise this effect and they are called cadences.
Cadences
The order and combination of these particular chords creates an effect on listeners:
- V-I: creates a sense of strong resolution. The V chord pulls you back to the I chord (the home chord).
- IV-I: creates a gentler resolution, a less final feeling compared to the stronger V-I cadence.
- Ending on V chord: creates anticipation and is great for leading into a chorus.
- V-vi: creates an unexpected turn, keeping the progression interesting and surprising.
These cadences will often happen at the end of phrases, but they can happen mid-line if the writer feels the effect they give is desirable mid-line.
Lets take a look at some examples
Chapel Roan – “Pink Pony Club”
Chord progression: F# – G#m – D♯m – B
Roman numerals: I – ii – vi – IV (repeats) So on the repeat the IV moves back to I chord.
Lyrics: “It’s where I belong down at the Pink Pony Club”
The IV – I cadence evokes a sense of emotional warmth whilst creating a feeling of ongoing movement to the next line “I’m gonna keep on dancing.” The IV chord pulls the music to the I on the next line propelling the music into the next phrase. This helps keep the listener engaged. While it does provide a resolution, the IV – I cadence does so in a way that is more gentle and less conclusive than a V-I progression which perhaps would feel too final here. This allows the music to feel more fluid and continuous, fitting the reflective and somewhat dreamy quality of the song’s lyrics and overall vibe. Take a listen, what do you think?
Miley Cyrus – ‘Flowers’ – in Am
Chord progression: C – F – E – Am
Roman numerals: III – VI – V – i
Lyrics “I can love me better than you can”
The V – I progression is that strong sense of home, ending. It’s a very satisfying resolution for the listener. Can you hear that?
(The V chord is made major in this instance – borrowed from the harmonic minor)
Nirvana – ‘Smells Like Teen Spirit’
Chords used throughout the song (in Fm)
Fm, Bbm, Ab, Db
i – iv – III – VI
“Load up on guns bring your friends”
‘Hello, hello, hello”
“With the lights out it’s less dangerous”
This continuously repeated circular progression gives the song its distinctive, relentless driving feel. The use of the i chord at the beginning of each phrase gives the song momentum – to keep moving to the i. Having no final strong cadence within the sequence (e.g. no V-I) gives no sense of finality or resolution. Perfect for the song.
Practical Tips for Songwriters
- Listen and Learn: Pay attention to your favourite songs. Identify how the artists you love use cadences and chords strategically and how that contributes to the overall feel of the song.
- End of Phrases: Consider your own songs, do you make strategic use of the I chord or cadences?
Elevate Your Songwriting with Professional Guidance
Understanding how chords work can elevate your songwriting, helping you create music that feels cohesive and emotionally satisfying. By analysing the above examples you can see how these techniques are applied in real-world contexts, making your songs more engaging and memorable.
Ready to take your songwriting to the next level? Join my sessions where we delve deeper into songwriting techniques, including the effective use of cadences. With personalised guidance and practical exercises, you’ll learn how to craft songs that captivate and resonate with your audience.
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