I–IV–IV–I in E Major

Pattern: I – IV – IV – I Chords: E – A – A – E

Chord Breakdown

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

Harmonic Analysis

This progression moves through E (Tonic) → A (Subdominant) → A (Subdominant) → E (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

E A

More Progressions in E 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