Unchained Melody by The Righteous Brothers is played in the key of C at a beginner difficulty level, originally released in the 1960s. It uses 4 chords — C Am F G — arranged in the I-vi-IV-V progression.

About the I-vi-IV-V progression

The I-vi-IV-V progression is the classic 1950s "doo-wop" pattern. From home, it moves to the relative minor, then through the subdominant to the dominant, creating a gentle rocking-chair feel that defined early rock and roll harmony. Countless doo-wop, oldies, and pop ballads use this shape.

Playing in the key of C

C major is the theoretical home key of Western music: all natural notes, no sharps or flats. On guitar, C, Am, Em, F, and G are the working chords. The one wrinkle is F, which as the IV chord requires either a barre or a partial shape — the first "difficult" chord most beginners meet.

Related songs

More songs in the key of C

• Changes by David Bowie
• My Way by Frank Sinatra
• River by Joni Mitchell
• Young Americans by David Bowie
• Bell Bottom Blues by Derek and the Dominos
• Come Sail Away by Styx

More songs using the I-vi-IV-V progression

• Dirty Work by Steely Dan
• Many Rivers to Cross by Jimmy Cliff
• Reelin’ in the Years by Steely Dan
• Sleepwalk by Santo and Johnny
• Tears (Shadows) by The Shadows