I–IV–IV–I in A Major

Pattern: I – IV – IV – I Chords: A – D – D – A

Chord Breakdown

Numeral	Chord	Type	Function
I	A (details)	major	Tonic
IV	D (details)	major	Subdominant
IV	D (details)	major	Subdominant
I	A (details)	major	Tonic

Harmonic Analysis

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

Dwelling on the subdominant for two bars in the middle creates a spacious, hymn-like quality. This progression has deep roots in gospel and traditional folk music where simplicity and singability are paramount.

Song Examples

Amazing Grace — Traditional
Will the Circle Be Unbroken — Carter Family

Chord Details

A D

More Progressions in A 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