I–V–vi–IV–I in A Major

Pattern: I – V – vi – IV – I Chords: A – E – F♯m – D – A

Chord Breakdown

Numeral	Chord	Type	Function
I	A (details)	major	Tonic
V	E (details)	major	Dominant
vi	F♯m (details)	minor	Submediant
IV	D (details)	major	Subdominant
I	A (details)	major	Tonic

Harmonic Analysis

This progression moves through A (Tonic) → E (Dominant) → F♯m (Submediant) → D (Subdominant) → A (Tonic).

An extension of the ubiquitous I–V–vi–IV progression, adding a return to the tonic for a satisfying resolution. The extra I chord at the end gives phrases a conclusive landing point.

Song Examples

Someone Like You — Adele
Viva la Vida — Coldplay

Chord Details

A E F♯m D

More Progressions in A 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