I–ii–IV–V in E Major
Pattern: I – ii – IV – V
Chords: E – F♯m – A – B
Chord Breakdown
| Numeral | Chord | Type | Function |
|---|---|---|---|
| I | E (details) | major | Tonic |
| ii | F♯m (details) | minor | Supertonic |
| IV | A (details) | major | Subdominant |
| V | B (details) | major | Dominant |
Harmonic Analysis
This progression moves through E (Tonic) → F♯m (Supertonic) → A (Subdominant) → B (Dominant).
This progression creates a sense of escalating energy by stepping from the tonic through the supertonic and subdominant to the dominant. It provides a satisfying, gradual harmonic build popular in verse sections.
Song Examples
- Take Me Home, Country Roads — John Denver
- Crocodile Rock — Elton John