Andalusian Cadence: Flamenco & Rock
The Andalusian cadence is the sound of a minor key walking downhill with purpose. In A minor, Am–G–F–E creates a descending bass line (A–G–F–E) while the final E chord acts like a strong dominant back to Am. That E major is the tell: it borrows the raised 7th (G#) from harmonic minor, giving the cadence its flamenco bite and “must resolve” energy. You’ll hear it in traditional flamenco, in rock riffs, and in cinematic cues whenever a composer wants instant drama. Rhythmically, it loves a driving groove or a strummed rasgueado feel. Try turning the last chord into E7 for even more pull, or linger on F before the drop to E for a bigger pre‑chorus build. It’s simple, but it sounds ancient and inevitable.
- Key
- A minor
- Tempo
- 120 BPM
- Groove
- rock
Play it on guitar
Start slow, keep your right hand steady, and aim for clean changes on the downbeats. Once it’s comfortable, add a groove and increase tempo.
Capo suggestion: try capo 0 and play in A shapes for open chords.
Chords: Am – G – F – E
Roman numerals & theory
Roman numerals describe the chord’s function relative to the key. This helps you transpose the “shape” to any key without memorizing new chord names.
Variations (keep the progression, change the feel)
- • Add 7ths for color (try maj7 on I, m7 on vi, and V7 before resolving).
- • Use a sus4 resolve on the V chord (e.g. Gsus4 → G) to create tension and release.
- • Change the rhythm instead of the chords: try anticipations (hit the next chord on the “and” of 4).
- • Arpeggiate the top notes to create a hook while the harmony stays the same.
- • Borrow a darker chord for contrast (in a major key, try iv for one bar before returning).
Related
FAQ
Select a chord below to start building your progression