I–V–I in C Major

Pattern: I – V – I Chords: C – G – C

Chord Breakdown

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

Harmonic Analysis

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

The most fundamental progression in Western music: tonic to dominant and back. This creates a complete statement of tension and resolution in just three chords, forming the basis of all tonal harmony.

Song Examples

You Really Got Me — The Kinks
Iron Man — Black Sabbath

Chord Details

C G

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