I–iii–IV–V in F Major
Pattern: I – iii – IV – V
Chords: F – Am – B♭ – C
Chord Breakdown
| Numeral | Chord | Type | Function |
|---|---|---|---|
| I | F (details) | major | Tonic |
| iii | Am (details) | minor | Mediant |
| IV | B♭ (details) | major | Subdominant |
| V | C (details) | major | Dominant |
Harmonic Analysis
This progression moves through F (Tonic) → Am (Mediant) → B♭ (Subdominant) → C (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