I–IV–V–I–V

The I–IV–V–I–V progression resolves to the tonic midway through but reopens on the dominant, creating a turnaround that demands continuation. This open-ended structure is perfect for verse endings that push into the next section. It is a staple of country and folk songwriting.

Pattern: I – IV – V – I – V   Example in C Major: C – F – G – C – G

Genre: country, folk   Difficulty: beginner

Choose a Key

C Major C – F – G – C – G G Major G – C – D – G – D D Major D – G – A – D – A A Major A – D – E – A – E E Major E – A – B – E – B B Major B – E – F♯ – B – F♯ F♯ Major F♯ – B – C♯ – F♯ – C♯ F Major F – B♭ – C – F – C B♭ Major B♭ – E♭ – F – B♭ – F E♭ Major E♭ – A♭ – B♭ – E♭ – B♭ A♭ Major A♭ – D♭ – E♭ – A♭ – E♭ D♭ Major D♭ – G♭ – A♭ – D♭ – A♭

Song Examples