I–IV–V–IV–V–I

The I–IV–V–IV–V–I progression doubles the classic cadential motion, building extra anticipation before the final resolution. The repeated IV–V creates a rocking, back-and-forth energy that delays satisfaction. This simple but effective pattern is a staple in rock and country music.

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

Genre: rock, country   Difficulty: beginner

Choose a Key

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

Song Examples