Author: Edwin Ayala

Great songwriting requires an understanding of music theory to create incredible-sounding melodies and chord progressions.

The circle of fifths helps musicians compose songs by visualizing the relationships between the twelve major and minor keys.

This circle of fifths guide explores how to read and apply the information to compose music you’re proud of.

What Is The Circle Of Fifths?

The circle of fifths presents a visual representation of all the major and minor keys musicians use when creating music.

Its origins began in seventeenth-century Russia, where Nikolay Diletsky is credited with its creation.

Each letter displayed on the circle of fifths represents a chord or note that musicians can reference.

The interactive circle encompasses the major keys surrounding the outer circle, moving clockwise through the circle.

Within the outer circle is an inner circle that represents the relative minor keys used for music composition.

The purpose of the circle of fifths is to visualize the relationship between notes and chords when creating compositions.

It also presents information about key signatures, which are denoted by sharps or flats and indicate whether a scale is major or minor.

These key signatures surround the outer circle, denoting the major or minor scale being played.

Based on the selected key, composers can move between chords within the root key for harmonious-sounding results.

The tool can also be used for transposing chords, which musicians use to retune specific instruments for performances.

The circle of fifths plays a pivotal role in composition today, inspiring a humorous Tolkien-influenced variation.

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Why Is The Circle Of Fifths Important?

One of the most vital tools for musicians, the circle of fifths helps with songwriting and composition in several ways.

Whether you’re writing a song or arranging instruments, it streamlines the process and opens up creative possibilities.

Here are some reasons why you should learn and apply the circle of fifths for songwriting:

• Mastering intervals: Intervals are foundational to composition, and the circle of fifths helps songwriters visualize the 5th interval and its inverse to play major and minor chords.
• Understanding chord structures and progressions: The 5th interval is also essential for chord structure, signifying the second overtone in the harmonic series and present in every chord.
• Developing harmonics: Composing harmonies is also enhanced by the circle of fifths, allowing for modulation between closely related keys.
• Understanding relative minor keys: All major keys have relative minor keys in the same key signature, which is fundamental to learning composition.

As you master the principles of the circle of fifths, your ability to create unique and skillful compositions will improve.

Who Should Use The Circle of Fifths?

The scope of application offered by the circle of fifths makes it a valuable resource for all musicians and composers.

Whether you’re playing traditional instruments or producing music with MIDI, the core principles remain the same.

This impressive flexibility extends to all experience levels, serving as a valuable resource for both beginners and experienced professionals.

Newcomers can gain a clearer understanding of sharps and flats in key signatures, making it easier to memorize these relationships.

This makes learning basic chord progressions more intuitive and remembering scales that are handy for melodic composition.

For experienced songwriters, the circle of fifths streamlines shifts in key for band members and can inspire more complex arrangements.

If you’re a jazz musician, you can use the circle of fifths alternative, known as the Coltrane circle after its creator, John Coltrane.

How To Use The Circle Of Fifths To Write Songs In 2025

Whether composing within a popular music genre or aiming for a niche audience, the circle of fifths will improve your songwriting.

Let’s break down how you can use the circle of fifths to write songs with lush chord progressions and stirring harmonies.

Step 1: Invest In A MIDI Keyboard

Many people who use music production software for compositions on laptops input notes and chords via the software’s piano roll.

While the piano roll is a valuable feature, using it to learn about the circle of fifths presents several limitations.

The piano roll’s vertical depiction creates confusion when understanding the relationship between notes and how they’re performed.

Likewise, using a mouse or trackpad to input notes is no substitute for playing them on a dedicated keyboard.

If you don’t have a MIDI keyboard, you can purchase an entry-level model for a reasonable price, or invest in one with more keys.

It’s an essential tool for learning and mastering the circle of fifths, and vital for streamlining your compositions.

Step 2: Understand Basic Music Theory

Before you dive into the circle of fifths, you should take a little time to learn the basics of music theory.

This begins with understanding the twelve musical keys and their related octaves that form the core of all musical compositions.

Major and minor keys create different musical qualities and impact the scales and chord patterns used in compositions.

The circle of fifths displays major keys in its outer circle, running clockwise C, G, D, A, E, B, F#, C#, Ab, Eb, Bb, and F.

Here, the # and b symbols represent the expression “sharp” and “flat,” with the former raising a note and the latter lowering a note.

If you begin at C on your keyboard, you’ll see that the next step, either clockwise or counterclockwise, is five full notes up or down the keyboard.

These adjacent notes are known as the perfect fifth and are a foundational element of diatonic chords and scales.

Recommended reading: What is Audio Compression? Ultimate Guide.

Step 3: Understand Key Signatures

Moving outward from the notes of the circle of fifths, another layer is presented, illustrating key signatures.

Key signatures are used to denote the number of sharps or flats required to form a major or minor scale as you move through the circle.

Move clockwise, and sharps are added at each note, with a single sharp for G through to six sharps for F#.

Counter clockwise follows the same pattern, this time adding a flat for each note until reaching F# with six sharps.

These key signatures serve several functions, helping independent artists compose with simplified notation that improves readability.

Step 4: Identify Relative Minor Keys & Major Keys

Moving on to the final layer of the circle of fifths, the concept of relative minor keys is outlined.

Through the inner circle, the minor keys that correspond to their major counterparts are directly opposite on the circle.

You’ll notice that each relative minor key shares the identical key signatures as its major counterpart.

In composition, switching to a relative minor key enables modulation between sections and adds emotional depth.

Using the circle of fifths allows songwriters to jump between related keys for more complex harmonic results.

Step 5: Learn Chord Structures

Understanding the role of a major or minor scale is an essential foundation for learning different types of chords.

Just as each letter represents a note, it also signifies the related group of notes known as chords, concerning the perfect fifth.

Start by practicing basic triads, which incorporate the root note along with a third and a fifth and are easy to perform.

For example, if your root note is C, the third and fifth notes needed for a triad chord will be a major third (E) and a perfect fifth (G).

For a minor triad chord, the third note will be a minor third, while other chord types use different notes and intervals in their formation.

Step 6: Explore Different Chord Progressions

The circle of fifths is also an excellent tool for learning about and exploring interesting chord progressions.

Moving clockwise on the circle shows the relative chord at fifth intervals to create smooth and harmonious sounds.

For example, beginning at C, the chord progressions move to G, D, A, and on through the following notes.

This makes it easy to create harmonious chord progressions, allowing for adaptation to different keys or musical styles.

If you’re exploring jazz, you can expand on the concept of chord progressions by learning about modes in music.

Step 7: Experiment With Harmonies

The same general principles used for creating minor or major chord progressions can be applied to understanding harmonies.

This concept relates to the relationship between multiple notes played together, shifting mood based on their arrangement.

We’ve touched on triad chords as basic building blocks, but complex chords will add more color to your compositions.

This includes diminished and augmented chords, suspended chords, and seventh chords, each using different notes and intervals.

Practicing these on your keyboard will help you to master the chord types and apply harmonies in unique ways.

Step 8: Transpose With Intervals

Another common use of the circle of fifths is for transposing a song, which involves changing from one key to another.

This process is used to make songs easier for vocalists to sing and to make specific instruments easier to play.

Using the circle of fifths allows musicians to instantly transpose from one key to the next by tracing the corresponding notes on the diagram.

By observing the chord relationship in the original key, they can be mapped onto the required new key.

Step 9: Analyze Your Favorite Songs

As you start to become familiar with the circle of fifths and its application for songwriting, you can relate it to popular songs.

Many chart-topping pop songs follow a similar pattern, with familiar chord progressions that align with the circle of fifths.

As you analyze your favorite songs and understand the compositional structures, you can adopt them for your own songs.

This structure can then be applied to other elements of music production, modifying tonality and dynamics.

Step 10: Experiment With Song Structures

While most popular music follows a similar song structure, there is plenty of room for experimentation when composing.

This can range from using descending chord sequences, moving to a different key, or starting with a non-tonic chord.

Introducing breaks or transitions allows the listener to process the music, while altering section lengths also adds variety.

You can explore less common chord variations and progressions using the circle of fifths, for instance, through abrupt modulations.

Instead of moving between adjacent keys, modulation uses uncommon keys and can enhance the dramatic effect.

It’s an effective songwriting tactic for compositions in more experimental genres, creating tension and anticipation.

Distribute & Promote Your Music With Promo Hype

Creating excellent compositions with the circle of fifths demands reaching an audience that appreciates your style.

Independent artists can distribute and promote music through Promo Hype and unlock a range of powerful tools.

Sign up for a Promo Hype membership to access the following cutting-edge features:

• Global distribution across all streaming platforms: Promo Hype members can schedule and distribute new and archived music across all the major streaming platforms. Drive traffic to Spotify, Amazon Music, TIDAL, Apple Music, and elsewhere.
• Complete control of marketing with the Promotional Toolkit: With Promo Hype’s Promotional Toolkit, independent musicians have full control over their marketing budget. Assess campaign performance and refine your overall promotional strategy.
• Robust analytics to enhance your music career: Understanding where your fans get your music is essential for developing a career. You can analyze various metrics through the Promo Hype artist Dashboard.
• Support and collaborations through the Promo Hype Community: If you’re struggling with the circle of fifths or looking for a collaboration, Promo Hype’s Community can help. Network with like-minded artists and share your insights into composition.

With features accessible through a streamlined Dashboard, Promo Hype is dedicated to driving success for independent artists.

Summary

Newcomers to songwriting can find the process daunting, with music theory terminology often adding to the confusion.

By following this guide, the circle of fifths can be demystified and incorporated into your songwriting workflow.

It’s a powerful tool in Western music for all types of songwriters, inspiring creative melodies and chord progressions.

Are you ready to take your career to the next level and wondering how to get signed to a record label? Having an industry pro sign you up can have real advantages.

The path to a record deal is entirely different from even five years ago. What you know can often matter less than your Instagram following and streaming numbers. Most labels want artists with built-in fans and proof that you can sell music.

Our guide details how to position yourself for label attention, from fine-tuning your sound to negotiating contracts.

What Is A Record Label?

Record labels exist to help musicians distribute, promote, and get paid for their music. They handle everything from identifying fresh talent to orchestrating album releases and marketing an artist’s music.

A record label employs various people who specialize in artist development. A&R scouts discover musicians while marketing professionals develop branding. Distribution experts get the music on streaming services, radio stations, and store shelves.

Labels today offer career advice, tour support, and social media strategies to help artists grow their careers. They also know precisely how to promote your music.

Record labels also supply the necessary financing and organizational structure that artists require. They provide money at a virtually impossible level for artists to reach independently.

Good labels provide environments where artists can focus entirely on creating great music while the music business professionals deal with the commercial side.

How Do Record Labels Work?

Labels invest in artists who make them money by selling recorded music, streaming, touring, and merchandise. Once the artist has spent the money, it serves as investment capital earned back when a song becomes a hit.

The relationship starts when A&R representatives find a strong performing act and offer them a contract. Once signed, the label pays for recording sessions, aids production, and directs promotional resources to maximize the artist’s commercial value.

Labels do the behind-the-scenes work of copyright management, royalty collection, and distribution partnerships that most artists and listeners never see. They have relationships with radio programmers, playlist curators, and the media that are vital in developing a buzz.

Once released, the label uses its distribution networks to ensure people can find the music on Spotify playlists and Apple Music. It may also press vinyl records for physical sales.

Promotion continues post-release, seeking playlist placements and submitting music to radio stations and media coverage. The label finances the process, including recording budgets, manufacturing, and marketing expenses.

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Major Labels Vs. Independent Labels

The music industry’s giants are big labels like Atlantic Records, Universal, Sony, and Warner. They have massive resources, global distribution, and enormous marketing budgets.

They could offer you the most exposure, but often want you to give up much creative control and a larger revenue cut. Major record labels also manage multiple artists; you may not get dedicated face-to-face time with them.

Smaller labels work with reduced budgets but often give artists better contract terms and creative control. They facilitate artist development, building in time for talent to develop its audience without the pressure to break big.

Independent record labels usually have better royalty rates, with shorter contract lengths. Artists with niche followings or a specific artistic vision might feel an indie label is more in tune with their goals.

Major labels offer worldwide reach, with teams in various countries collaborating on simultaneous global rollouts. They enjoy big budgets for costly music videos, extravagant promotions, and ad placements that most indie labels can’t afford.

What Can A Record Label Do For You In 2025?

Labels provide financial support for recording, touring, and video production that would otherwise be unavailable to most artists. The money allows you to make better content without accruing personal debt.

Teams of marketing professionals develop promotions for retail, digital, and other promotional media. Their relationship with playlists, radio programmers, and the press opens doors for them that would otherwise remain closed.

Labels provide invaluable experience with copyright protection, international distribution, and film and television licensing. Their advice keeps you from the most common legal traps and opens up lucrative opportunities.

Record labels nowadays have vast data-crunching operations to turn streaming and social media numbers into actionable marketing data. Their digital marketing teams know how to go viral on TikTok, promote playlists, and use digital marketing channels.

Physical distribution is another key benefit of a record label; you need manufacturing relationships and retail networks that most labels can maintain more efficiently than individuals.

Do Independent Artists Need Record Labels In 2025?

Record labels still offer significant benefits: industry connections, large-scale promotion, and access to resources that can open doors. For independent artists, though, the real question is: At what cost?

Signing with a label often means giving up some creative control, ownership rights, and flexibility over how and when your music is released.

That’s why more artists are turning to platforms like PromoHype to help them remain independent while still getting their music heard. Such platforms are tailored for indie artists and offer distribution without locking them into long-term contracts.

Ultimately, it depends on what kind of career you want and how much control you’re willing to trade for support.

Read more: A guide to the best music production software.

How To Get Signed To A Record Label: Step-By-Step

Getting a record deal requires strategy and effort. Our list is a practical 7-step guide that walks you through developing your unique voice and musical identity, ultimately leading you to connect and work with the right people.

Each step contributes to developing a package that appeals to label heads seeking to sign marketable talent.

Step 1: Define Your Sound

The first step to getting a record deal is building your unique sound. You don’t need to have attended the best music production school to sound great. Many labels look for artists who fit into established genres yet offer something new.

Develop your songwriting and music production skills and master your artistic vision. Create a clear brand that an A&R person can easily explain and argue for within their company.

Research current artists at target labels to understand what record companies appreciate. Use this research to help “place” your music without sacrificing your true style.

You’ll hear A&R people say, “We’re looking for something unique but accessible” when searching for new acts to sign. They’re looking for artists who feel fresh and familiar enough to connect with established audiences.

Step 2: Grow Your Fanbase Organically

Create a strong online presence on TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts. Use short-form video content to highlight your personality and brand for people searching for new music.

Performing live, even small, local gigs, develops strong connections with audiences and the industry. Live shows hone your stagecraft and provide additional content for your press kit and streaming platforms.

Working with other artists opens up the potential for audience sharing and network growth. These relationships put your music before existing fan bases and demonstrate that you can collaborate with others.

Growing an email list through show sign-ups and website opt-ins is a promotional asset that record labels understand and value.

On your social media channels, focus on real fans rather than vanity metrics. Labels know that 500 loyal fans who buy your merch, go to your shows, and share your music are worth more than a passive 50,000 casual followers.

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Step 3: Perfect Your Live Performance

Even with the increasing relevance of digital metrics, live performances are still crucial for attracting label attention. A&R people regularly attend shows, and some of the most successful artists were discovered at one of their small gigs.

Spend time rehearsing your playing and your ‘presence’ on stage. Practice what to say between the songs and how you look. Film yourself performing so you can see what needs work, and use the footage for social media and your promotional material.

Think about aspects of production such as lighting, backdrops, and synced visuals that complement your music rather than divert from it. These are professional touches that show commitment to the whole experience..

Step 4: Prepare A Professional Electronic Press Kit (EPK)

All aspiring musicians who want to join a record label need a good EPK. It should include a short artist bio, professional photos, music samples, live performance footage, and highlights from press coverage.

It should also mention key statistics that illustrate your growth, such as streaming stats, social interaction rate, live show ticket sales, and upcoming tour dates.

Having your EPK available online through a professional website is essential. Ensure that all components align with your overall brand while looking professional to make an outstanding first impression.

Be sure to highlight your story and some career high points in your artist biography. Professional photography that reflects your personality and style is crucial for press and promo material.

Create video content showcasing your live performance ability and good old-fashioned charisma. This step will also provide record labels with vital information about your marketability outside the studio.

Add concert videos, interview clips, and behind-the-scenes content that demonstrate different sides of your artistic persona.

Step 5: Find And Target The Right Labels

Research potential labels to see which match your aesthetics, music, and goals. Check out their current label artists, track record, and marketing plans to see if they suit you.

Do they represent similar artists? Create customized pitches demonstrating exactly why you fit with the label.

Network selectively at music industry events, conferences, or showcases where labels attend to source talent. Research the personnel at your target labels, particularly the A&R representatives working with aspiring artists.

Step 6: Prepare Your Demos

Instead of bombarding labels with your entire music catalog, send them your best high-quality music. Hire a music producer if you can afford it, and ensure that your demos show your artistic side, yet have commercial potential.

Provide context with your submissions, e.g., accomplishments, upcoming gigs, etc, and a way to contact you. Start your submission with your ‘A’ material that will immediately capture the listener’s attention.

People in the music industry typically never make it past the first track if they’re not hooked immediately. Update your demo material as you evolve and have new content ready so you’re never unprepared for a surprise business opportunity.

Step 7: Be Ready for Industry Conversations

Learn the standard terminology of recording contracts, such as advances, types of royalties, term lengths, etc. You should have good legal representation whenever you sign a contract, no matter how big or small the record label you’re signing with.

A music lawyer skilled in record contracts can spot red flags and negotiate better terms. Before you enter negotiations, know your priorities and non-negotiable points.

Be prepared to offer a broader career vision and discuss how you hope to progress into your third and fourth albums. This thinking demonstrates that you want to surpass a few successful singles and shows labels that you are in this for the long haul.

What To Look For In Record Labels

Focus on record labels with a history of developing new artists similar to you in genre, aesthetic, and professional career development. Their previous success with similar acts shows they have the knowledge and network necessary for your project.

Research whether the label is financially sound by looking at its recent work, staff count, and years in the business. Ask for clarification on the contract, specifically what rights and creative control you will maintain over your intellectual property and how much you will keep from your revenue stream.

Scrutinize the label’s digital marketing know-how as social media presence is crucial for commercial success. Labels with strategies, influencer partnerships, and social media muscle have a significant edge.

Find out if artists usually stay with the label after more than one release. A high turnover suggests issues with delivering on promises or effective collaboration.

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Record Labels Currently Looking For Artists

If you’re serious about building a music career, getting on the radar of A&R reps and signing to a record label is a game-changer.

Many record labels are looking for artists, but standing out in a sea of submissions takes more than talent. You’ll need a strategy, a strong identity, and a sound that is ready for the spotlight.

Here are some labels looking for new acts:

• Chinese Man Records: All genres
• Paper Garden Records: Looking for fresh talent
• Freshly Squeezed Music: Vintage influenced jazz
• One Shoe Records: Indie
• Revolver: All genres
• Disconnect Disconnect Records: Punk, hardcore, and alternative
• Captured Tracks: Lo-fi and dream pop
• Mute Records: Indie
• Red Bull Records: Alternative rock, hip hop, and electronic dance music
• Sub Pop: Indie rock, folk, electronic, and hip-hop

Summary

Getting signed to a record label requires strategically growing your music, audience, and connections. As the music industry continually shifts, patience, flexibility, and professionalism are key.

Remember that a record deal is only one possible route to recognition. A number of artists successfully follow the indie path and self-release their work through various digital platforms. Some aspiring musicians even launch their own record labels to maintain complete creative control. What matters most is choosing the path that aligns with your music career.

If landing a record deal is your goal, focus on making great music, building your presence, and connecting with the right people. These steps give you the best chance to get signed.