I–I–IV–V in C Major

Pattern: I – I – IV – V Chords: C – C – F – G

Chord Breakdown

Numeral	Chord	Type	Function
I	C (details)	major	Tonic
I	C (details)	major	Tonic
IV	F (details)	major	Subdominant
V	G (details)	major	Dominant

Harmonic Analysis

This progression moves through C (Tonic) → C (Tonic) → F (Subdominant) → G (Dominant).

Lingering on the tonic for two bars before moving to IV and V, this progression mirrors natural storytelling pacing. The extended tonic lets lyrics breathe before the harmony moves forward.

Song Examples

Your Cheatin' Heart — Hank Williams
I Walk the Line — Johnny Cash

Chord Details

C F G

More Progressions in C Major

I–IV–V–I I–V–vi–IV I–vi–IV–V ii–V–I I–IV–V I–♭VII–IV vi–IV–I–V I–V–vi–iii–IV–I–IV–V I–IV I–V IV–V IV–I