C 50s Doo-Wop

I – vi – IV – V progression in C major

C major
Chords
Triads7th Chords
Instrument
GuitarUkulele
Harmony
Originalii–V–ISec. Dom.
IC
viAm
IVF
VG

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

C 50s Doo-WopI – vi – IV – V

The C I–vi–IV–V progression (C – Am – F – G) is the classic doo-wop sequence from the 1950s. It evokes nostalgia and romantic innocence. With seventh chords (CMaj7 – Am7 – FMaj7 – G7), it takes on a jazzier, more refined character.

Pop / RockNostalgia4/4 · 4 bars

Chords (triads): C, Am, F, G.

Chords (7th): CMaj7, Am7, FMaj7, G7.

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