I–IV–I–V in B Major
Pattern: I – IV – I – V
Chords: B – E – B – F♯
Chord Breakdown
| Numeral | Chord | Type | Function |
|---|---|---|---|
| I | B (details) | major | Tonic |
| IV | E (details) | major | Subdominant |
| I | B (details) | major | Tonic |
| V | F♯ (details) | major | Dominant |
Harmonic Analysis
This progression moves through B (Tonic) → E (Subdominant) → B (Tonic) → F♯ (Dominant).
This progression swings from tonic to subdominant, returns home, and then lifts to the dominant. The return to I in the middle provides a strong grounding effect before the dominant creates forward motion.
Song Examples
- La Bamba — Ritchie Valens
- Louie Louie — The Kingsmen