IV–I–V–I in E Major

Pattern: IV – I – V – I Chords: A – E – B – E

Chord Breakdown

Numeral	Chord	Type	Function
IV	A (details)	major	Subdominant
I	E (details)	major	Tonic
V	B (details)	major	Dominant
I	E (details)	major	Tonic

Harmonic Analysis

This progression moves through A (Subdominant) → E (Tonic) → B (Dominant) → E (Tonic).

The IV–I–V–I progression pairs a plagal cadence (IV–I) with an authentic cadence (V–I), creating a double resolution. Each half provides its own satisfying arrival at the tonic, making this a powerful closing gesture. It is common in hymns, gospel music, and classical finales.

Song Examples

Amazing Grace — Traditional
Oh Happy Day — Edwin Hawkins Singers

Chord Details

A E B

More Progressions in E Major

I–IV–V–I I–V–vi–IV I–vi–IV–V ii–V–I I–IV–V I–♭VII–IV vi–IV–I–V I–V–vi–iii–IV–I–IV–V I–IV I–V IV–V IV–I