I–V–IV in B Major
Pattern: I – V – IV
Chords: B – F♯ – E
Chord Breakdown
| Numeral | Chord | Type | Function |
|---|---|---|---|
| I | B (details) | major | Tonic |
| V | F♯ (details) | major | Dominant |
| IV | E (details) | major | Subdominant |
Harmonic Analysis
This progression moves through B (Tonic) → F♯ (Dominant) → E (Subdominant).
The I–V–IV progression reverses the classic IV–V approach, moving from the dominant back down to the subdominant. This creates a laid-back, anthemic quality that defines classic rock.
Song Examples
- Sweet Home Alabama — Lynyrd Skynyrd
- Margaritaville — Jimmy Buffett