I–V–I–IV in C Major

Pattern: I – V – I – IV Chords: C – G – C – F

Chord Breakdown

Numeral	Chord	Type	Function
I	C (details)	major	Tonic
V	G (details)	major	Dominant
I	C (details)	major	Tonic
IV	F (details)	major	Subdominant

Harmonic Analysis

This progression moves through C (Tonic) → G (Dominant) → C (Tonic) → F (Subdominant).

This progression shuffles between the three primary chords with a return to I in the middle. The pattern creates a natural, rolling feel that fits the rhythmic pulse of country and folk music.

Song Examples

Ring of Fire — Johnny Cash
Folsom Prison Blues — Johnny Cash

Chord Details

C G F

More Progressions in C 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