I–V–IV–V in E Major

Pattern: I – V – IV – V Chords: E – B – A – B

Chord Breakdown

Numeral	Chord	Type	Function
I	E (details)	major	Tonic
V	B (details)	major	Dominant
IV	A (details)	major	Subdominant
V	B (details)	major	Dominant

Harmonic Analysis

This progression moves through E (Tonic) → B (Dominant) → A (Subdominant) → B (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

E B A

More Progressions in E 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