Chord Progressions in E Minor
The key of E Minor is built on the natural minor scale starting on E. 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 E Minor
The seven chords built from the E Minor scale.
Common progressions in E Minor
Epic minor cycle in E Minor
i – ♭VI – ♭III – ♭VII
The most-used minor progression of the last 40 years.
Andalusian cadence in E Minor
i – ♭VII – ♭VI – V
Flamenco, surf rock, and metal all use this descending pattern.
Minor i–iv–V in E Minor
i – iv – V
The harmonic minor cadence with a major V — used in classical and metal.
Sad pop in E Minor
i – ♭VI – ♭III – ♭VII
Reflective and melancholic — used in pop ballads and indie.
Relative key
E Minor shares the same notes as its relative major, G Major. You can borrow chords freely between the two.
Generate progressions in E Minor
ChordGen builds custom progressions in any key. Just describe the mood — the AI handles the music theory.
Generate E Minor progressions