I–V–vi–ii in A Major
Pattern: I – V – vi – ii
Chords: A – E – F♯m – Bm
Chord Breakdown
| Numeral | Chord | Type | Function |
|---|---|---|---|
| I | A (details) | major | Tonic |
| V | E (details) | major | Dominant |
| vi | F♯m (details) | minor | Submediant |
| ii | Bm (details) | minor | Supertonic |
Harmonic Analysis
This progression moves through A (Tonic) → E (Dominant) → F♯m (Submediant) → Bm (Supertonic).
The I–V–vi–ii progression descends through the circle of fifths, creating smooth harmonic motion that naturally wants to continue to V and resolve. This falling-fifths pattern generates elegant forward momentum. It appears in pop ballads and jazz-influenced songwriting.
Song Examples
- Can't Help Falling in Love — Elvis Presley
- All of Me — John Legend