Chord Progressions in C Minor
The key of C Minor is built on the natural minor scale starting on C. Its diatonic chords give it a darker, more introspective character than the parallel major. The i–♭VI–♭III–♭VII cycle (heard in everything from "Africa" to "Time" by Hans Zimmer) is the most recognizable minor-key progression in modern music.
The diatonic chords of C Minor
The seven chords built from the C Minor scale.
Common progressions in C Minor
Epic minor cycle in C Minor
i – ♭VI – ♭III – ♭VII
The most-used minor progression of the last 40 years.
Andalusian cadence in C Minor
i – ♭VII – ♭VI – V
Flamenco, surf rock, and metal all use this descending pattern.
Minor i–iv–V in C Minor
i – iv – V
The harmonic minor cadence with a major V — used in classical and metal.
Sad pop in C Minor
i – ♭VI – ♭III – ♭VII
Reflective and melancholic — used in pop ballads and indie.
Relative key
C Minor shares the same notes as its relative major, E♭ major. You can borrow chords freely between the two.
Generate progressions in C Minor
ChordGen builds custom progressions in any key. Just describe the mood — the AI handles the music theory.
Generate C Minor progressions