Free Song Idea Generator
Browse chord progressions in any key and mode, or roll a switch-up idea to break out of predictable patterns. Works across Major, Minor, Dorian, Mixolydian, Pop, Rock, Blues, Country, R&B, Jazz, and more.
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Example progressions
Switch-up ideas
When to use this
- When you want to start writing music but don't know which chords to use
- When every song you write ends up sounding like a I–IV–V loop
- When you want to try a different scale or genre feel without a music theory background
- When a song is structurally working but feels too predictable and needs a structural shake-up
Chord progressions as starting blocks
A chord progression isn't a song. It's a foundation. The same four chords — G, D, Em, C — have appeared in thousands of hit songs across every genre, and they sound completely different depending on the tempo, the key you're playing them in, and the rhythm you use. Don't dismiss a progression because it seems common. Learn what it feels like under your hands, then make it yours.
Choosing a key is partly practical. If you sing, find the key where your voice sits most comfortably on the melody. If you play guitar or piano, some keys are physically easier than others — G and D are natural guitar keys; C and F sit well on piano. There's no wrong answer, but it helps to start somewhere that feels comfortable before you've written the rest of the song.
Modes are worth exploring even if you don't know the theory behind them. Dorian — a minor-based mode with a slightly raised 6th — has a sound that sits between sad and hopeful, which is why it shows up in a lot of soul and Celtic music. Mixolydian is a major scale with a flattened 7th, which gives it the classic rock and blues feel. Lydian's raised 4th creates the dreamy, floating quality you hear in film scores. You don't need to understand why to use them.
Switch-up ideas work differently — they're not about the chords, they're about the arrangement. Dropping instruments, changing tempo, inverting the song's structure: these are the moves that make a song memorable instead of just competent. Use them when everything is working but nothing is surprising.
Common questions
What are chord progressions?
A chord progression is a sequence of chords played in order. They form the harmonic foundation of a song. The same progression can feel very different depending on the key, tempo, and rhythm you use.
What's the difference between Major and Minor?
Major keys tend to sound bright or resolved. Minor keys tend to sound darker or more emotionally complex. Most pop and country songs are in Major; a lot of R&B, rock, and heavier emotional material uses Minor.
What is a mode?
Modes are scales with different interval patterns than standard Major and Minor. Dorian has a slightly raised 6th — hopeful despite being minor-based. Mixolydian has a flattened 7th — classic in rock and Celtic. Lydian's raised 4th creates a dreamy, floating quality.
What are switch-up ideas?
Structural or arrangement changes to make mid-song — things like dropping all instruments except one for a verse, starting the chorus without the bass, or doubling the tempo for the bridge. They're for when a song is working but feels too predictable.
Can I hear these chord progressions?
The standalone tool shows chord names only. To hear them played, open the full WriteHook app — the chord workspace lets you play and hear any progression.
Are these progressions copyright-free?
Yes. Chord progressions are not copyrightable. You can use any of these in your songs without restriction.
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