4 Chords 1000 Songs

Master the 4-Chord Turnaround: Play Hundreds of Songs Effortlessly

If you're ready to level up your guitar skills and unlock a world of music, you’re in the right place! Today, we’re diving into one of the most versatile progressions on the guitar: the 4-chord turnaround in C. These four simple chords can be your ticket to playing hundreds of songs, from timeless classics to modern hits. Plus, I’ll show you how to add a personal touch to make this progression uniquely yours.

The 4 Essential Chords

The foundation of this turnaround includes four basic chords:

1. C Major: (x32010) - A classic starting point.
2. A Minor: (x02210) - A natural shift from C.
3. D Minor: (xx0231) - A touch of melancholy.
4. G Major: (320033) - A bright resolution.

If you’re unfamiliar with these chords or need a refresher, check out my free Masterclass! It includes over 4 hours of video lessons and a detailed chord ebook. Sign up here – it’s 100% free.

Songs You Can Play

With these four chords, you’ll be able to play countless songs. Here are just a few examples:

• "Stand By Me"
• "Baby, Baby"
• "Crocodile Rock"

Each song uses variations of this progression, whether in the verse, chorus, or both. Once you learn the turnaround, you’re ready to dive into these classics and more.

Adding Flair to the Turnaround

Knowing the chords is just the beginning. Let’s explore ways to embellish this progression and make it sound richer:

1. Passing Chord: G/B
   Add a G/B (x20003) between C and A Minor for a smooth transition. It’s a small change with a big impact, adding fluidity to your playing.

   C -> G/B -> A Minor
               

2. Substitute D Minor with F Major
   Swap the D Minor (xx0231) for F Major (133211 or x33211) for a stronger, more vibrant sound. This is especially effective for upbeat songs like "Crocodile Rock."
3. G7 Instead of G
   For a softer, ballad-like feel, use G7 (320001) instead of G Major. The added seventh note creates a warm, jazzy texture that’s perfect for slower pieces like "Stand By Me."

Timing Variations

Not all songs use the same duration for each chord. Pay attention to these common variations:

• One Chord per Measure:

  C (1 measure) -> A Minor (1 measure) -> D Minor (1 measure) -> G (1 measure)
              

• Extended Measures: Some songs, like "Stand By Me," extend a single chord over two measures for a more drawn-out effect.

Practice Makes Perfect

Once you’ve mastered the basics, experiment with strumming patterns, fingerpicking, and embellishments to make the turnaround your own. As you practice, you’ll find it easier to adapt the progression to different songs and styles.

Ready to Learn More?

If you found this lesson helpful, please like, share, and subscribe to my YouTube channel for more tips and tutorials. Have a favorite song that uses this progression? Drop it in the comments—I’d love to hear from you!

Let’s make music together, one chord at a time. Happy playing!