The Number System Explained
Instead of writing chord names, the Nashville Number System uses scale degree numbers. A "1-4-5" progression is the same pattern in every key:
| Number | Key of C | Key of G | Key of A |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | C | G | A |
| 2m | Dm | Am | Bm |
| 3m | Em | Bm | C#m |
| 4 | F | C | D |
| 5 | G | D | E |
| 6m | Am | Em | F#m |
Common Progressions by Number
1-5-6m-4 → The "pop" progression (C G Am F) 1-4-5 → Rock/blues standard (C F G) 1-6m-4-5 → 50s doo-wop (C Am F G) 2m-5-1 → Jazz ii-V-I (Dm G C) 6m-4-1-5 → Axis of Awesome (Am F C G)
1-5-6m-4 in Key of C
CGAmF
The most popular progression in pop music, written as numbers.
Instant Transposition
Know a song is 1-5-6m-4? Play it in any key by mapping the numbers. Need it in E? 1=E, 5=B, 6m=C#m, 4=A. Done.
Next Steps
Master keys for deeper understanding, and use a capo for easy key changes on guitar.