Chord progressions
The sequences songs are actually built from, written in roman numerals so they work in any key.
Common progressions
Ordered by how often you will run into them.
I–V–vi–IV
The one you have heard most. Four chords behind a very large share of pop, rock and folk.
Let It Be · Don't Stop Believin'
vi–IV–I–V
The same four chords started on the relative minor, which darkens the opening without changing the harmony.
Despacito · Cheap Thrills
ii–V–I
The backbone of jazz harmony. Each chord pulls to the next by a fourth.
All The Things You Are · Autumn Leaves
I–vi–IV–V
The doo-wop turnaround. Everywhere in the 1950s, and still in use.
Stand By Me · Blue Moon
I–IV–V–I
Three chords, blues and folk. The plainest way to establish a key.
Wild Thing · Louie Louie
vi–ii–V–I
ii–V–I with one more step in front, extending the same pull.
Fly Me to the Moon · The Way You Look Tonight
By key
The same patterns, transposed.