F 50s Doo-Wop

I – vi – IV – V progression in F major

F major
Chords
Triads7th Chords
Instrument
GuitarUkuleleBass
Harmony
Originalii–V–ISec. Dom.
IF
viDm
IVB♭
VC

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

F 50s Doo-WopI – vi – IV – V

The F I–vi–IV–V progression (F – Dm – Bb – C) is the classic doo-wop sequence from the 1950s. It evokes nostalgia and romantic innocence. With seventh chords (FMaj7 – Dm7 – BbMaj7 – C7), it takes on a jazzier, more refined character.

Pop / RockNostalgia4/4 · 4 bars

Chords (triads): F, Dm, Bb, C.

Chords (7th): FMaj7, Dm7, BbMaj7, C7.

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