I–IV–V Chord Progression Songs

G C D
Gtap to play
Ctap to play
Dtap to play

Strum Pattern

1 & 2 & 3 & 4 &

Play in Other Keys

Key of G G – C – D
Key of C C – F – G
Key of D D – G – A
Key of A A – D – E
Key of E E – A – B
Key of F F – Bb – C

About the I–IV–V Progression

The I–IV–V is the foundation of Western popular music. Built from the three major chords of any key, it carries a strong sense of forward motion and resolution. The IV chord provides a lift away from home, while the V chord creates tension that wants to resolve back to the I. This simple but powerful formula has driven rock 'n' roll since the 1950s, and it remains the backbone of blues, country, punk, and countless folk songs. If you only learn one progression, make it this one.

Songs Using the I–IV–V Progression