I–IV–V–IV–V–I in A♭ Major

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

Chord Breakdown

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

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.

Song Examples

Louie Louie — The Kingsmen
Twist and Shout — The Beatles

Chord Details

A♭ D♭ E♭

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