I–IV–ii–V in D Major

Pattern: I – IV – ii – V Chords: D – G – Em – A

Chord Breakdown

Numeral	Chord	Type	Function
I	D (details)	major	Tonic
IV	G (details)	major	Subdominant
ii	Em (details)	minor	Supertonic
V	A (details)	major	Dominant

Harmonic Analysis

This progression moves through D (Tonic) → G (Subdominant) → Em (Supertonic) → A (Dominant).

This progression moves through the subdominant and supertonic before reaching the dominant, creating a polished harmonic cycle. The ii–V motion at the end gives it a sophisticated finish common in pop songwriting.

Song Examples

I Want It That Way — Backstreet Boys
Beautiful Day — U2

Chord Details

D G Em A

More Progressions in D 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