A Pop Progression

I – V – vi – IV progression in A major

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

Triad Diagrams — A Pop Progression (Guitar)

A Pop ProgressionI – V – vi – IV

The A I–V–vi–IV progression (A – E – F#m – D) is the most widely used chord sequence in modern pop music. On guitar, these chords create a perfect balance of brightness and emotional depth. With seventh chords (AMaj7 – E7 – F#m7 – DMaj7), it gains a richer, more sophisticated texture.

Pop / RockHope & Joy4/4 · 4 bars

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

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

Famous songs using this progression

  • Let It Be – The Beatles
  • No Woman No Cry – Bob Marley
  • Someone Like You – Adele
  • With or Without You – U2