E 50s Doo-Wop

I – vi – IV – V progression in E major

E major
Chords
Triads7th Chords
Instrument
GuitarUkuleleBass
Harmony
Originalii–V–ISec. Dom.
IE
viC#m
IVA
VB

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

E 50s Doo-WopI – vi – IV – V

The E I–vi–IV–V progression (E – C#m – A – B) is the classic doo-wop sequence from the 1950s. It evokes nostalgia and romantic innocence. With seventh chords (EMaj7 – C#m7 – AMaj7 – B7), it takes on a jazzier, more refined character.

Pop / RockNostalgia4/4 · 4 bars

Chords (triads): E, C#m, A, B.

Chords (7th): EMaj7, C#m7, AMaj7, B7.

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