Popular Chord Progressions and How to Use Them in EDM, Techno, and Mor

Chord progressions are the backbone of emotional storytelling in music. They provide the foundation upon which melodies, basslines, and rhythms are built, creating a cohesive structure for a track.

In electronic music genres like Techno, EDM, House, and Trap, chord progressions play a pivotal role in defining the mood and energy of a piece. A hypnotic progression can drive the relentless energy of a Techno track, while a sparse, melancholic sequence can set the emotional undertone for a Trap beat.

Why do some tracks instantly connect with listeners? It’s all in the chords. The right progression can evoke joy, sadness, tension, or release, making it a key tool for producers to convey their artistic vision.

What Are Chord Progressions?

A chord progression is a sequence of chords played in a specific order to create harmony and movement within a track. It serves as the musical narrative, guiding listeners through moments of tension, resolution, and anticipation.

In electronic genres, chord progressions are often looped, creating a driving force behind the rhythm and melody. However, their impact goes far beyond repetition—they shape the emotional and dynamic arc of a track.

Why Do Chord Progressions Matter in Electronic Music?

Techno and House:
- These genres often rely on subtle harmonic shifts to create tension and release over time. A simple minor progression, such as i-VI-III-VII, can gradually evolve through filtering, modulation, and layering, maintaining the hypnotic flow that defines Techno.
Hip Hop and Trap:
- Dark, minimalist progressions like i-VI-iv-V are staples in these genres, providing a moody, introspective canvas for beats and vocals. Sparse instrumentation and heavy reliance on 808 basslines emphasize the emotional weight of these progressions.

Popular Chord Progressions by Genre

Chord progressions are the foundation of musical storytelling, and each genre has its signature progressions that define its character. In electronic and urban music genres, these progressions are tailored to evoke specific moods and drive the energy of a track. Let’s explore some of the most popular chord progressions used in Techno, EDM, House, and Hip Hop/Trap, along with tips on how to make them your own.

Techno and Tech House

Progression Example: i-VI-III-VII (Minor chord progressions for tension)

This minor progression is a favorite in Techno and Tech House due to its ability to create hypnotic, evolving soundscapes. The minor tonality provides an air of mystery and tension, while the progression’s cyclical nature makes it perfect for looping in long builds.

How It’s Used: Producers like Stephan Bodzin and Tale of Us use this progression to craft immersive tracks. Pads, arpeggiators, and subtle harmonic shifts keep the energy flowing without overwhelming the listener.

Tips for Producers:

Layer with Arpeggiators: Break down the chords into individual notes and run them through an arpeggiator to add movement and complexity. This technique is a staple in melodic Techno.
Add Pads for Depth: Use long, sustained pads with subtle modulation to fill the soundstage and create a rich harmonic texture.
Experiment with Variations: Swap the III chord for its minor counterpart (iii) or add passing chords for a more dynamic progression.

EDM and Progressive House

Progression Example: I-V-vi-IV (The Emotional Build-Up)

This progression is iconic in EDM and Progressive House. Known as the “four-chord progression,” it’s been the backbone of countless anthems due to its uplifting and emotional quality. The I chord establishes a sense of resolution, while the vi introduces a touch of melancholy, making it perfect for melodic breaks and epic drops.

How It’s Used: Tracks like “Wake Me Up” by Avicii and other festival anthems capitalize on this progression to connect emotionally with the audience during buildups and releases.

Tips for Producers:

Pair with Supersaws: Layer lush supersaw chords over this progression to maximize emotional impact. Sidechain compression with a kick drum creates the characteristic pulsing effect in EDM.
Experiment with Key Changes: Introduce a key change in the drop for a dramatic effect. This is a powerful tool to heighten emotional intensity during climaxes.
Use Dynamic Layering: Gradually introduce elements like strings, plucks, or additional pads to build tension before the drop.

House and Deep House

Progression Example: I-IV-V-IV (Groovy and Uplifting)

This progression is a staple in House and Deep House music, offering a soulful, jazzy vibe that keeps the groove flowing. Its simplicity makes it versatile, while its roots in blues and gospel give it a timeless appeal.

How It’s Used: Producers like Disclosure and Kerri Chandler use this progression to create tracks with infectious grooves and warm, inviting energy.

Tips for Producers:

Use Chord Stabs: Play the chords rhythmically as stabs, matching the syncopation of the drum groove. This technique enhances the track’s rhythmic drive.
Add 7ths or 9ths: Enrich the harmonic texture by extending the chords with 7ths or 9ths, giving the progression a jazzy or soulful quality.
Focus on Groove: Use subtle variations in chord voicings and rhythm to keep the progression fresh without overcomplicating it.

Progression Example: i-VI-iv-V (Dark and Emotional)

This progression is synonymous with the dark, moody aesthetic of modern Hip Hop and Trap. Its minor tonality conveys introspection and melancholy, making it ideal for sparse, atmospheric beats.

How It’s Used: Producers like Metro Boomin and Travis Scott use this progression to craft beats that are both haunting and captivating, pairing them with deep 808 basslines and ambient textures.

Tips for Producers:

Use Sparse Instrumentation: Focus on a minimalist approach. Pair the chords with a simple, rhythmic melody or vocal sample to keep the track uncluttered.
Automate Filter Sweeps: Add movement by automating low-pass or high-pass filters on the chords. This creates a sense of evolution without changing the progression.
Integrate 808 Basslines: Sync the root notes of the chords with a sub-heavy 808 bassline to ground the progression and add power to the low end.

How to Use Chord Progressions in Your Tracks

Crafting chord progressions isn’t just about choosing the right chords—it’s about using them creatively to match the mood, enhance the arrangement, and give your tracks a unique identity. Here’s how to effectively incorporate chord progressions into your productions.

Match Progression to Mood

The mood of your track determines the type of chord progression you should use.

For High-Energy Tracks (Techno/EDM):
Focus on repetitive yet evolving progressions. For example, a progression like i-VI-III-VII in Techno can drive the track forward while subtle variations in dynamics and filtering maintain interest. Use tools like automation and modulation to create shifts in tone and intensity.
For Emotional Impact (Trap/Deep House):
Minor progressions and slower tempos work wonders for creating introspective or melancholic vibes. A progression like i-VI-iv-V, paired with sparse instrumentation and ambient textures, can evoke strong emotions in genres like Trap and Deep House.

Layering with Synths

Choosing the right synth sounds and layering them effectively can elevate your chord progressions.

For Tech House: Use pluck sounds to give the chords a rhythmic, percussive quality that complements the groove.
For Progressive House: Layer lush pads with wide stereo imaging to create an immersive soundscape.
For Trap: Opt for gritty, filtered synths or simple piano sounds for a raw, emotional effect.

Example in Action:
Take a basic I-V-vi-IV progression and layer it with an arpeggiator to add movement. For example:

Use a pluck sound for the arpeggio.
Add a pad layer to provide harmonic depth.
Use sidechain compression to tie the progression rhythmically to the beat.

Rhythmic Emphasis

The rhythm of your chord progression can significantly affect its impact.

For House: Syncopate chord hits to match the groove of the drums. This technique enhances the track's rhythm and makes it more danceable. For example, play the chords on the offbeat or as stabs to emphasize the syncopation.
For Techno: Use chords sparingly, allowing percussive elements to take center stage. A simple sustained pad chord, subtly modulated over time, can be more impactful than frequent chord changes.

Tools for Crafting Chord Progressions in EDM, Techno, and Hip Hop

Leveraging tools and plugins can make crafting chord progressions more efficient and inspiring, especially if you’re stuck for ideas. Here are some powerful options to explore:

Scaler 2

What It Does: Scaler 2 analyzes your track's key and suggests chord progressions that match your genre. It’s particularly useful for discovering genre-specific progressions for EDM, Hip Hop, or Techno.
Why It’s Great: Includes built-in chord sets and scales for instant inspiration.

Captain Chords

What It Does: Allows you to build custom chord progressions and sync them directly with your DAW.
Why It’s Great: It simplifies the process of creating and arranging progressions, even for beginners.

Cthulhu

What It Does: A MIDI plugin that triggers custom chord sets with a single key press, making it ideal for live performance and experimentation.
Why It’s Great: Perfect for creating unexpected chord patterns and harmonies.

DAW Tips for Crafting Chord Progressions

Use MIDI Tools Like Quantizers in Ableton Live: These can help you quickly correct timing issues and experiment with rhythmic variations in your progressions.
Explore Pre-Made Chord Packs: Many producers use chord packs tailored to specific genres like Techno and Trap to spark ideas and speed up their workflow. These packs often include MIDI files that you can drag into your DAW and tweak as needed.