Practice

I–vi–IV–V (50s Doo-Wop)

The classic doo-wop turnaround that soundtracked the 1950s: a major chord, its relative minor, then IV and V walking back home. Play it slow for a ballad or double-time it for a sock-hop shuffle.

Roman numerals: I–vi–IV–V — heard in Stand By Me, Earth Angel, and Blue Moon.

The I–vi–IV–V (50s Doo-Wop) progression

The classic doo-wop turnaround that soundtracked the 1950s: a major chord, its relative minor, then IV and V walking back home. Play it slow for a ballad or double-time it for a sock-hop shuffle.

Roman-numeral formula: I–vi–IV–V.

Example in the key of C

Played in the key of C, I–vi–IV–V becomes:

  1. C — the I chord
  2. Am — the vi chord
  3. F — the IV chord
  4. G — the V chord

Tap any chord above for fingerings and voicings, or build this progression yourself in the progression builder.

Famous songs that use it

  • Stand By Me
  • Earth Angel
  • Blue Moon