I–IV–I in D Major

Pattern: I – IV – I   Chords: D – G – D

Chord Breakdown

NumeralChordTypeFunction
I D (details) major Tonic
IV G (details) major Subdominant
I D (details) major Tonic

Harmonic Analysis

This progression moves through D (Tonic) → G (Subdominant) → D (Tonic).

The simplest folk progression, rocking between the tonic and subdominant. This two-chord motion evokes the drone-like quality of traditional folk instruments and open tunings.

Song Examples

Chord Details

More Progressions in D Major