26 Songs Based on Only Two Chords: The Power of Simplicity in Music

In the vast world of music, where intricate chord progressions and complex compositions often take center stage, there is something uniquely captivating about songs that strip it all down to just two chords. These songs, built on the foundation of simplicity, prove that a limited harmonic palette can still create remarkable musical experiences.

In this article, we delve into the realm of two-chord songs, exploring their patterns, functions, and examples that showcase their beauty. 

David Bennett Piano explores the concept of two-chord songs. The host highlights the prevalence of three or more chords in most songs but emphasizes the interest in those with only two chords. He uncovers a pattern in the particular chords used in such songs, primarily focusing on the I-V and I-IV progressions. The I-V progression features a tonic chord that provides a sense of rest and a dominant chord that introduces tension, seeking resolution back to the tonic. On the other hand, the I-IV progression involves a tonic chord and a subdominant chord that offers a more relaxed and mellow feel while still driving the song forward.

Exploring a Variety of Two-Chord Songs:

Now, let's dive into a compilation of 26 songs based on only two chords, showcasing the versatility and creativity that can be achieved within this minimalist framework:

1. "Blurred Lines" Robin Thicke ft. T.I., Pharrell 
   I - V | G - D
   
   
2. "LDN" Lily Allen 
   I - V7 | F - C7
   
   
3. "Achy Breaky Heart" Billy Ray Cyrus 
   I - V | A - E
   
   
4. "You Never Can Tell" Chuck Berry 
   I - V7 | C - G7
   
   
5. "Dance The Night Away" The Mavericks 
   I - V7 | E - B7
   
   
6. "Give Peace a Chance" John Lennon 
   I - V7 | E - G7
   
   
7. "Jambalaya (On the Bayou)" Carpenters 
   I - V7 | G - D7
   
   
8. "Therefore I Am" Billie Eilish 
   i - V | Dm - A
   
   
9. "Born in the U.S.A." Bruce Springsteen 
   I - IV | B - E
   
   
10. "Paperback Writer" The Beatles 
    I7 - IV | G7 - C
    
    
11. "He Got Game" Public Enemy 
    I - IV | E - A
    
    
12. "Stop Whispering" Radiohead 
    I - IV | D - G
    
    
13. "Everyday People" Sly and the Family Stone 
    I - IV | G - C/G
    
    
14. "Lively Up Yourself" Bob Marley y The Wailers Band 
    I - IV | D - G
    
    
15. "Anyone Else but You" The Moldy Peaches 
    I - IVmaj7 | G - Cmaj7
    
    
16. "Heaven Is A Halfpipe (If I Die)" OPM 
    I - IV | Eb - Ab
    
    
17. "Love" Kendrick Lamar ft. Zacari 
    I6 - IVmaj7 | F6 - Bbmaj7
    
    
18. "Heroin" The Velvet Underground 
    I - IV | Db - Gb
    
    
19. "Sing" Ed Sheeran 
    i - iv7 | Abm - Dbm7
    
    
20. "Moves Like Jagger" Maroon 5 
    i7 - iv7 | Bm7 - Em7
    
    
21. "Uptown Funk" Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars 
    i7 - IV7 | Dm7 - G7
    
    
22. "Use Me" Bill Withers 
    i7 - IV7 | Em7 - A7
    
    
23. "I'd Rather Go Blind" Etta James 
    I - ii | A - Bm
    
    
24. "A Different Corner" George Michael 
    Imaj9 - ii7 | Gbmaj9 - Abm7
    
    
25. "Your Love Gets Sweeter" Finley Quaye 
    I - ii7 | G - Am7
    
    
26. "Fallin'" Alicia Keys 
    i - v7 | Em - Bm7
    
    

Special mention:

"Dreams" Fleetwood Mac 
F - G - Am 

"Tomorrow Never Knows" The Beatles
C - Bb/C  (C - C11)

David Bennett introduces several examples of two-chord songs that illustrate the power of simplicity. "Falling" by Alicia Keys, featuring the I-vi progression, exemplifies the use of a minor dominant chord for a different flavor. Also mentions "Dreams" by Fleetwood Mac, though it includes additional chords beyond the two-chord structure. Additionally, "Tomorrow Never Knows" by The Beatles challenges the notion of chord progressions by relying on a drone and incorporating only one additional chord.

The Importance of Chord Functions:

Functional harmony plays a crucial role in understanding the effectiveness of two-chord progressions. Each chord has a specific function: tonic, dominant, or subdominant. The interaction between these functions creates tension, release, and a sense of movement in the song. While two-chord songs may seem limited, the careful pairing of chords allows for harmonic development and contrast within the composition.

The world of music never ceases to amaze us, and the simplicity found in two-chord songs is a testament to the creativity and artistry of musicians. David Bennett highlights the patterns and functions of two-chord progressions, emphasizing their impact on musical tension and release. Through various examples, we've seen how renowned artists have utilized this minimalistic approach to create iconic songs that resonate with audiences across generations.

Whether it's the raw energy of punk rock, the soulful melodies of blues, or the introspective musings of folk, two-chord songs showcase the power of simplicity in music. They remind us that sometimes, all it takes is a well-crafted pairing of chords to captivate listeners and create memorable moments. So, the next time you find yourself strumming your guitar or sitting at the piano, don't underestimate the beauty that can emerge from the simplicity of just two chords.