E Minor

The E minor key is built on the E natural minor scale and borrows notes and chords from related modes like E Dorian and E Phrygian.

C
VI
G
III
D
VII
A
E
B
F#
Db
Ab
Eb
Bb
F
Am
iv
Em
i
Bm
v
F#m
C#m
G#m
D#m
Bbm
Fm
Cm
Gm
Dm
Key signature
1 (F#)
Relative major
Neighboring keys

Chords in this key

  • i
  • ii°
  • III
  • iv
  • v
  • VI
  • VII

Common chord progressions

  • Natural minori – VI – III – VII
  • Minor three-chordi – iv – v
  • Minor popi – VI – iv – V7
  • Minor cadenceii° – V7 – i

In E Minor, the v is often played as a major V7 for a stronger pull to the tonic.

Borrowed chords

Chords borrowed into E Minor from outside for extra color.

  • V
  • V7
  • IV
  • bII
  • III+
  • vii°

Modes on this root

Same root as E Minor, different flavor.

Songs in E Minor

See all 9 songs