I–IV–V–I in A Major

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

Chord Breakdown

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

Harmonic Analysis

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

The I–IV–V–I progression is one of the most fundamental harmonic patterns in Western music. It establishes a key through subdominant and dominant motion before resolving home, creating a satisfying sense of closure. This cadential pattern has been the backbone of hymns, folk songs, and pop hits for centuries.

Song Examples

Twist and Shout — The Beatles
Wild Thing — The Troggs
La Bamba — Ritchie Valens

Chord Details

A D E

More Progressions in A Major

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 V–I

Related Progressions

I–IV–V I–V–vi–IV