I–V–vi–iii–IV Chord Progression Songs

C G Am Em F
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Gtap to play
Amtap to play
Emtap to play
Ftap to play

Strum Pattern

1 & 2 & 3 & 4 &

Play in Other Keys

Key of C C – G – Am – Em – F
Key of G G – D – Em – Bm – C
Key of D D – A – Bm – F#m – G
Key of A A – E – F#m – C#m – D
Key of E E – B – C#m – G#m – A
Key of F F – C – Dm – Am – Bb

About the I–V–vi–iii–IV Progression

The Canon progression takes its name from Johann Pachelbel's famous Canon in D (1680), one of the most recognizable pieces of classical music. This descending bass-line pattern — I–V–vi–iii–IV — creates a graceful, cascading effect that feels both elegant and emotionally satisfying. The five-chord sequence offers more harmonic variety than the standard four-chord progressions, giving songwriters extra room to develop melodies. It has been adopted (and sometimes lovingly parodied) across every genre from baroque pop to punk rock.

Songs Using the I–V–vi–iii–IV Progression