I–V–IV–V in C Major

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

Chord Breakdown

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

Harmonic Analysis

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

This four-chord loop anchors on the tonic, bounces between the dominant and subdominant, and returns to the dominant for a driving feel. It creates a powerful, cyclical energy ideal for rock anthems.

Song Examples

Summer of '69 — Bryan Adams
Can't Stop — Red Hot Chili Peppers

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