I–iii–IV–V in D Major
Pattern: I – iii – IV – V
Chords: D – F♯m – G – A
Chord Breakdown
| Numeral | Chord | Type | Function |
|---|---|---|---|
| I | D (details) | major | Tonic |
| iii | F♯m (details) | minor | Mediant |
| IV | G (details) | major | Subdominant |
| V | A (details) | major | Dominant |
Harmonic Analysis
This progression moves through D (Tonic) → F♯m (Mediant) → G (Subdominant) → A (Dominant).
The iii chord acts as a smooth stepping stone between I and IV, adding a touch of minor color. This creates an elegant, ascending quality that works beautifully in ballads and mid-tempo songs.
Song Examples
- Every Breath You Take — The Police
- Grow Old with Me — John Lennon