A 50s Doo-Wop

I – vi – IV – V progression in A major

A major
Chords
Triads7th Chords
Instrument
GuitarUkuleleBass
Harmony
Originalii–V–ISec. Dom.
IA
viF#m
IVD
VE

Triad Diagrams — A 50s Doo-Wop (Guitar)

A 50s Doo-WopI – vi – IV – V

The A I–vi–IV–V progression (A – F#m – D – E) is the classic doo-wop sequence from the 1950s. It evokes nostalgia and romantic innocence. With seventh chords (AMaj7 – F#m7 – DMaj7 – E7), it takes on a jazzier, more refined character.

Pop / RockNostalgia4/4 · 4 bars

Chords (triads): A, F#m, D, E.

Chords (7th): AMaj7, F#m7, DMaj7, E7.

Famous songs using this progression

  • Stand By Me – Ben E. King
  • Earth Angel – The Penguins
  • Every Breath You Take – The Police
  • Stay – Maurice Williams & The Zodiacs
  • Blue Moon – Rodgers & Hart