Electronic Dance Music (EDM) has taken the world by storm, with its infectious beats and catchy melodies. But what makes EDM so addictive? One of the key elements is the chords used in the music. In this article, we will explore the most commonly used chords in EDM and how they create a sense of energy and excitement. From the classic four-chord progression to more complex harmonies, we will delve into the world of EDM chords and discover what makes them so irresistible. So, get ready to learn about the secrets behind the music that keeps us dancing all night long!
Electronic Dance Music (EDM) is a diverse genre that encompasses various sub-genres, each with its unique chord progressions. Common chords used in EDM include major and minor chords, as well as their variations such as major seventh, minor seventh, and extended chords. In addition, EDM producers often use synthetic and electronic sounds to create new and innovative chord progressions. Some sub-genres of EDM, such as techno and hardstep, tend to use more dissonant and complex chord progressions, while others, like deep house and trance, often use more harmonious and melodic chord progressions. Ultimately, the chords used in EDM depend on the specific sub-genre and the producer’s creative choices.
Understanding the Basics of Chords
Types of Chords
There are several types of chords used in EDM music, each with its own unique sound and characteristics. The most common types of chords include:
- Major chords: Major chords are one of the most basic and commonly used chords in music. They are formed by playing the first, third, and fifth notes of a scale. Major chords have a bright, uplifting sound and are often used to create a sense of optimism and positivity.
- Minor chords: Minor chords have a darker, more melancholic sound than major chords. They are formed by playing the first, third, and fifth notes of a minor scale. Minor chords are often used to create a sense of tension and emotional depth in a piece of music.
- Diminished chords: Diminished chords are formed by playing the first, minor third, and fifth notes of a scale. They have a slightly dissonant sound and are often used to create a sense of tension and drama in a piece of music.
- Augmented chords: Augmented chords are formed by playing the first, major third, and fifth notes of a scale. They have a bright, powerful sound and are often used to create a sense of excitement and energy in a piece of music.
Each type of chord has its own unique sound and can be used to create different moods and emotions in a piece of music. Understanding the basics of chords is essential for any producer looking to create effective and impactful EDM tracks.
Triads and Four-Note Chords
In the world of electronic dance music (EDM), the use of chords is essential to create the unique sound and atmosphere of each genre. Triads and four-note chords are two common types of chords used in EDM music.
Triads
Triads are the most basic type of chord and consist of three notes played together. They are commonly used in many genres of EDM, including house, techno, and trance. In these genres, triads are often played in a repeating cycle to create a hypnotic and driving rhythm.
One example of a triad used in EDM is the major chord. A major chord is made up of a root note, a major third, and a fifth. For example, in the key of C major, the C major chord would be made up of the notes C, E, and G. These chords are often used to create a sense of energy and positivity in the music.
Another example of a triad used in EDM is the minor chord. A minor chord is made up of a root note, a minor third, and a fifth. For example, in the key of A minor, the A minor chord would be made up of the notes A, C, and E. These chords are often used to create a sense of melancholy or introspection in the music.
Four-note chords
Four-note chords, also known as seventh chords, are more complex than triads and consist of four notes played together. They are commonly used in many genres of EDM, including funk, soul, and jazz. In these genres, four-note chords are often used to add depth and complexity to the music.
One example of a four-note chord used in EDM is the dominant seventh chord. A dominant seventh chord is made up of a root note, a major third, a fifth, and a minor seventh. For example, in the key of G major, the G dominant seventh chord would be made up of the notes G, B, D, and F. These chords are often used to create a sense of tension and release in the music.
Another example of a four-note chord used in EDM is the minor seventh chord. A minor seventh chord is made up of a root note, a minor third, a fifth, and a minor seventh. For example, in the key of C minor, the C minor seventh chord would be made up of the notes C, Eb, G, and Bb. These chords are often used to create a sense of sadness or introspection in the music.
In conclusion, the use of triads and four-note chords is essential in creating the unique sound and atmosphere of each genre of EDM music. By understanding the basics of chords, EDM producers can create complex and intricate melodies that capture the essence of their music.
The Most Common Chords in EDM Music
Major Chords
C Major
C major is one of the most commonly used chords in EDM music. It is a fundamental chord that can be used in a variety of ways to create different sounds and moods. In a C major chord, the notes C, E, and G are played together.
A Major
A major is another common chord used in EDM music. This chord has a bright and cheerful sound, making it ideal for creating uplifting and energetic tracks. In an A major chord, the notes A, C#, and E are played together.
G Major
G major is a versatile chord that can be used in a variety of EDM genres. It has a strong and powerful sound that can add weight and impact to a track. In a G major chord, the notes G, B, and D are played together.
E Major
E major is a common chord used in many types of EDM music. It has a bright and uplifting sound that can create a sense of energy and excitement. In an E major chord, the notes E, G#, and B are played together.
D Major
D major is a powerful chord that can add a sense of strength and determination to a track. It has a strong and robust sound that can be used in a variety of EDM genres. In a D major chord, the notes D, F#, and A are played together.
Minor Chords
Minor chords are a fundamental aspect of electronic dance music (EDM) and play a crucial role in defining the overall sound and mood of a track. There are several minor chords commonly used in EDM music, including:
- A minor: The A minor chord is a staple in EDM music, providing a dark and melancholic sound that is often used in conjunction with major chords to create tension and release.
- C minor: The C minor chord is a versatile chord that can be used in a variety of EDM genres, including techno, trance, and house. It has a moody and contemplative sound that is often used to create a sense of introspection or melancholy.
- D minor: The D minor chord is a common chord in EDM music, particularly in the genres of house and techno. It has a brooding and atmospheric sound that is often used to create a sense of tension or drama.
- F minor: The F minor chord is a key chord in many EDM genres, including trance, house, and electro. It has a melancholic and emotional sound that is often used to convey a sense of longing or sadness.
- G minor: The G minor chord is a versatile chord that can be used in a variety of EDM genres, including techno, trance, and house. It has a dark and foreboding sound that is often used to create a sense of tension or unease.
Diminished Chords
Diminished chords are a type of chord that is commonly used in EDM music. They are made up of three notes, a root note, a minor third, and a diminished fifth. These chords have a unique sound that can add tension and interest to a song.
C diminished is one of the most common diminished chords used in EDM music. It is made up of the notes C, Eb, and Gb. This chord can be used to create a sense of tension and drama in a song.
D diminished is another commonly used diminished chord in EDM music. It is made up of the notes D, F, and Ab. This chord can be used to create a sense of unease or tension in a song.
F diminished is the last of the diminished chords that are commonly used in EDM music. It is made up of the notes F, Ab, and C. This chord can be used to create a sense of uncertainty or unrest in a song.
Overall, diminished chords are a great way to add interest and tension to a song in EDM music. They can be used in a variety of ways, from creating a sense of unease to adding tension and drama to a song.
Augmented Chords
Augmented chords are a common chord type used in EDM music. They are formed by raising the fifth note of a chord a half step. This creates a tense and dissonant sound that is often used to add energy and excitement to a musical piece.
In EDM music, the most common augmented chords are the C augmented and D augmented chords. These chords are used in a variety of subgenres, including techno, trance, and hardstep.
The C augmented chord is formed by raising the fifth note of the C major chord, G, a half step to G#, resulting in the chord C#-E-G#. This chord creates a tense and dissonant sound that is often used to add energy and excitement to a musical piece.
The D augmented chord is formed by raising the fifth note of the D major chord, A, a half step to A#, resulting in the chord D-F#-A#. This chord creates a tense and dissonant sound that is often used to add energy and excitement to a musical piece.
Augmented chords are often used in combination with other chords, such as the major and minor chords, to create complex and dynamic harmonies. They are also often used in the build-up and breakdown sections of a track to create tension and release.
Overall, augmented chords are a common and versatile chord type used in EDM music, adding energy and excitement to a musical piece through their tense and dissonant sound.
Chord Progressions in EDM Music
Basic Chord Progressions
When it comes to chord progressions in EDM music, there are several basic chord progressions that are commonly used. These progressions provide a foundation for many different types of electronic dance music, and can be heard in genres ranging from techno to house to trance. Here are three of the most basic chord progressions used in EDM music:
- I-IV-V
- I-V-vi-IV
- I-vi-IV-V
Each of these progressions has its own unique sound and feel, and can be used to create a wide range of musical styles.
The first progression, I-IV-V, is one of the most common in EDM music. This progression is built around the first, fourth, and fifth chords in a key, and creates a sense of tension and release that is characteristic of many electronic music styles. This progression is often used in techno and house music, and can be heard in many classic tracks from these genres.
The second progression, I-V-vi-IV, is similar to the first, but includes an additional chord. This progression is built around the first, fifth, and vi chords in a key, and creates a sense of movement and energy that is perfect for high-energy dance tracks. This progression is often used in trance and progressive house music, and can be heard in many classic tracks from these genres.
The third progression, I-vi-IV-V, is the simplest of the three, and is built around the first, vi, and fourth chords in a key. This progression creates a sense of tension and release that is characteristic of many electronic music styles, and is often used in techno and house music. This progression can be heard in many classic tracks from these genres, and is a great way to create a sense of momentum and energy in your music.
Overall, these basic chord progressions are essential tools for any EDM producer looking to create compelling and dynamic music. Whether you’re creating techno, house, trance, or any other type of electronic music, these progressions can help you to create a sense of movement and energy that will keep your audience dancing all night long.
More Complex Chord Progressions
When it comes to EDM music, more complex chord progressions can add depth and interest to the harmony of a track. Here are a few examples of such progressions:
- I-vi-IV-V-vi: This progression is a variation of the classic five-chord progression used in many genres of music. It begins with the tonic chord (I), then moves to the vi chord, followed by the IV chord, then the V chord, and finally the vi chord again. This progression creates a sense of resolution and can be found in many house and techno tracks.
- I-IV-vi-V-IV: This progression is similar to the previous one, but it begins and ends with the I chord. It also includes the vi chord before the V chord, which creates a sense of tension before the final resolution. This progression is commonly used in trance and progressive house music.
- I-V-vi-IV-V-vi: This progression starts with the tonic chord, then moves to the V chord, followed by the vi chord, then the IV chord, and finally the V chord again. This creates a sense of tension and release, and is often used in hardstep and dubstep music.
These more complex chord progressions can add a level of sophistication to EDM music, while still maintaining the energetic and rhythmic elements that make the genre so popular.
Experimenting with Chords in EDM Production
Exploring Uncommon Chords
Exploring uncommon chords is an essential aspect of EDM production. These chords can add depth and complexity to a track, and can help producers create unique and memorable melodies. Here are some examples of uncommon chords used in EDM music:
Altered Chords
Altered chords are chords that have been modified by changing one or more of their notes. For example, a chord can be altered by adding a flat (b) or a sharp (#) to one of its notes. Altered chords can add tension and movement to a progression, and can help create a sense of drama or suspense. Some common altered chords used in EDM music include:
- Diminished chords: A diminished chord is a triad with a diminished fifth. It is a half-diminished chord, and can be used to create a sense of tension or dissonance.
- Augmented chords: An augmented chord is a triad with an augmented fifth. It is a major chord with an added fifth, and can be used to create a sense of energy or excitement.
Extended Chords
Extended chords are chords that have been expanded by adding one or more notes to the basic chord structure. These notes are typically added to the seventh or ninth scale degree of the chord. Extended chords can add richness and complexity to a progression, and can help create a sense of harmonic movement. Some common extended chords used in EDM music include:
- Seventh chords: A seventh chord is a triad with a note added to the seventh scale degree. This note can be a major or minor seventh, and can create a sense of tension or resolution.
- Ninth chords: A ninth chord is a triad with a note added to the ninth scale degree. This note can be a major or minor ninth, and can create a sense of harmonic depth and complexity.
Exploring uncommon chords can be a fun and rewarding aspect of EDM production. By experimenting with different chords and chord progressions, producers can create unique and memorable melodies that stand out from the crowd.
Chord Inversions
Chord inversions are a fundamental aspect of chord construction in EDM music. Inversions involve rearranging the order of the notes in a chord to create a new sound. The two most common types of chord inversions are drop 2 chords and drop 3 chords.
Drop 2 Chords
Drop 2 chords involve shifting the second note of a chord to the bottom, creating a new voicing. This results in a thicker, more complex sound. In a C major chord, for example, a drop 2 chord would have an E in the bass, creating a C major chord with a different harmonic structure.
Drop 3 Chords
Drop 3 chords involve shifting the third note of a chord to the bottom, creating a new voicing. This results in a thinner, more dissonant sound. In a C major chord, for example, a drop 3 chord would have a G in the bass, creating a C major chord with a different harmonic structure.
Overall, chord inversions are a powerful tool for EDM producers to create unique and complex chord progressions that add depth and interest to their music. By experimenting with different chord inversions, producers can develop their own distinctive sound and style.
Chord Substitution
Chord substitution is a common technique used in EDM production to create unique and diverse sounds. By substituting one chord with another, producers can alter the mood and direction of a track, and create unexpected twists and turns. In this section, we will explore two types of chord substitution:
Dominant Chord Substitution
Dominant chords are chords that are built on the fifth scale degree of a key. They are often used in EDM production because they create a sense of tension and movement. By substituting a dominant chord with a different dominant chord, producers can create new harmonic possibilities. For example, substituting a G7 chord with a C7 chord creates a completely different sound and feel.
Minor Chord Substitution
Minor chords are chords that are built on the flattened scale degrees of a key. They are often used in EDM production to create a sense of melancholy or darkness. By substituting a minor chord with a different minor chord, producers can create new harmonic possibilities. For example, substituting an A minor chord with an E minor chord creates a completely different sound and feel.
It’s important to note that chord substitution should be done with care, as it can easily disrupt the flow and coherence of a track. Producers should experiment with different chord substitutions and listen carefully to the results, making adjustments as necessary to achieve the desired sound.
FAQs
1. What are chords and how are they used in music?
Chords are a group of three or more notes played together to create a harmony. In EDM music, chords are used to create a rhythmic and melodic foundation for the track. They can be simple or complex, and are often played on synthesizers or other electronic instruments.
2. What are the most common chords used in EDM music?
The most common chords used in EDM music are major and minor chords. Major chords are typically used to create a bright and uplifting sound, while minor chords are used to create a darker and more melancholic sound. Other common chords include seventh chords, which add a jazzier feel to the music, and diminished chords, which can create a tense and dissonant sound.
3. How do DJs and producers choose which chords to use in their tracks?
DJs and producers choose which chords to use in their tracks based on the desired sound and mood of the music. They may experiment with different chord progressions and chord variations to create a unique sound or to match the vibe of the track. Additionally, they may use chord samples or presets from synthesizers or other electronic instruments to create a specific sound.
4. Can chords be played in different ways in EDM music?
Yes, chords can be played in different ways in EDM music. They can be played in a simple, block-style fashion, or they can be layered with other sounds and effects to create a more complex sound. Additionally, chords can be played in different octaves or with different timing to create a unique rhythmic pattern.
5. Are there any rules or guidelines for using chords in EDM music?
There are no strict rules or guidelines for using chords in EDM music, as the genre is constantly evolving and experimenting with new sounds. However, some basic principles of music theory, such as chord progression and chord substitution, can be applied to create a cohesive and pleasing sound. Ultimately, the most important thing is to experiment and find what works best for the specific track or genre of music being produced.
