How did I not know about this chord progression before?

[Nekujak]

I stumbled onto yet another interesting YT video related to songwriting and chord progressions. This time it has a name: The Royal Road progression - or in Japanese: Odo Shinko.

Apparently, it's overwhelmingly popular in Japan, not only for pop songs, but also in anime and video game soundtracks.

I can't believe I never heard of this until now, but I've happily added it to my songwriting toolbox!

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[Fabien Boussat]

I instantly heard "What have I, what have I, what have I done to deserve this ?"

 

[Nekujak]

I instantly heard "What have I, what have I, what have I done to deserve this ?"

If you're referring to the Pet Shop Boys song, it's not exactly the Royal Road progression because it doesn't include the V chord. The chorus goes: F - Em - Am

But you're right, it's extremely close and imparts a similar feel.

 

[Fabien Boussat]

If you're referring to the Pet Shop Boys song, it's not exactly the Royal Road progression because it doesn't include the V chord. The chorus goes: F - Em - Am

But you're right, it's extremely close and imparts a similar feel.

Oh Lord, you're right.