I–V–vi–ii in G Major

Pattern: I – V – vi – ii   Chords: G – D – Em – Am

Chord Breakdown

NumeralChordTypeFunction
I G (details) major Tonic
V D (details) major Dominant
vi Em (details) minor Submediant
ii Am (details) minor Supertonic

Harmonic Analysis

This progression moves through G (Tonic) → D (Dominant) → Em (Submediant) → Am (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

Chord Details

More Progressions in G Major