In this little series we're having a look at some popular chord progressions which are used over and over (and over) again in many popular tunes and songs. You're sure to recognize many of them as they are so common. Why? Well they are belonging to what's known as the Chord Families of music, and there are only a certain amount to choose from - although it has to be said that these families can be varied in an absolute multitude of different ways. And once you start putting your own melodies or vocal lines over the common chord progressions they take on a whole new life.

There is another approach to writing melodies which moves away from using the chord families in this manner, and it involves a technique which we will cover at a later stage here at the BellaOnline Musician site. This is the "secret" technique used by writers such as Paul McCartney and the likes! But that's another days work!

But using the chord family progression outlined in this series is a time honoured and trusted way to come up with some great progressions and tunes. Let's have a look at our first chord progression in the family of D.

This particular progression was used in that timeless classic "With or Without You" by none other than world giants U2. This popular mega-hit which has been covered by many an artist employs just 4 simple chords throughout the whole song. Simple but amazingly effective! These 4 chords on their own don't sound exactly world-shattering, but combined with Bono and the boys thought provoking lyrics and musical interpretation the whole progression just comes alive!

Until the next time ... talk 2 ya' ...

David