EDM Chord Progressions
EDM harmony is functionally simple — the energy comes from arrangement, sound design, and rhythm. Progressions are typically 4-bar loops in minor keys, with the iv chord providing the emotional lift before a drop. Open voicings (sus2, add9) translate well to supersaws and pluck synths.
Defining characteristics
- →Minor keys (Am, Em, F♯m most common)
- →Sus2 and add9 voicings for open, airy textures
- →4-bar loops for verse, build, and drop sections
- →Picardy thirds (major resolution) for euphoric drops
- →Sidechain-friendly sustained pads
Example progressions
Future bass drop
i – ♭VII – ♭VI – ♭VII · A minor
The classic Flume / Illenium progression. Works with both minor and sus2 voicings.
Progressive house build
vi – IV – I – V · C major
A four-on-the-floor staple that builds energy across a 16-bar phrase.
Deep house / melodic techno
i – v – ♭VI – ♭VII · A minor
Hypnotic and forward-driving. The minor v (instead of dominant V7) keeps it modal.
Songs in this style
Strobe — deadmau5
C♯m – A – E – B
Never Be Like You — Flume
F♯m – D – A – E
Generate your own edm chord progressions
ChordGen produces unlimited variations in any key, with free MIDI export to your DAW.
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