Music Glossary: pop

Major‑key pop sequence emphasizing mediant lift before pre‑dominant and dominant. Uses the mediant (iii) chord between tonic and subdominant; a bri... more

Widely known as the “Axis” progression, represented by I–V–vi–IV. This four-chord loop dominates modern pop, rock, and ballad writing. It maintains... more

Evergreen “’50s progression” I–vi–IV–V used in doo‑wop, ballads, and countless pop standards. more

Common pop EDM ballad loop vi–IV–I–V; supports soaring top‑lines and “the drop”. more

Emphasis on beats 2 and 4 in 4/4; core of rock, pop, funk feel. more

Prevents plosives by placing mesh 2–3 inches from mic, singer 2–3 inches beyond that. Keeps capsule clean. more

Thumb slaps and pops with ghost-note grid; control dynamics. more

Third replaced by 2 or 4; resolves to triad or used statically in pop. more

Common song form alternating narrative verses with a repeated chorus hook. more