i-VI-III-VII Chord Progression in E minor
In E minor the i-VI-III-VII progression is Em – C – G – D.
A powerful minor-key progression that moves through the major chords of the relative major key. Zombie by The Cranberries follows this pattern.
The chords
| Numeral | Chord | Easiest shape |
|---|---|---|
| i | Em | 022000 |
| VI | C | x32010 |
| III | G | 32000x |
| VII | D | xx0232 |
How to practise
Use power chords for a rock sound or open chords for a folk sound.
- Play one chord per bar at 60 BPM with a simple down-strum on each beat.
- Raise the tempo by 5 BPM once you can play eight rounds without a mistake.
- Change the strumming pattern: down, down-up, up-down-up.
Key facts about E minor
E minor contains the notes E, F#, G, A, B, C, D. See the full E Natural Minor scale with fretboard diagrams, and use it to solo over the progression.
i-VI-III-VII in other keys
Other progressions in E minor
FAQ
What are the chords of i-VI-III-VII in E minor?
Em – C – G – D.
What notes are in E minor?
E minor contains E, F#, G, A, B, C, D.
Which scale can I solo with over i-VI-III-VII in E minor?
The E minor scale fits, and the minor pentatonic scale from E is the easiest choice.
Get one useful guitar tip a week
New chord guides, practice ideas and app updates. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.