Guide · Music theory
The 1-4-5 chord progression
The 1-4-5 (I-IV-V) progression uses the chords built on the first, fourth and fifth notes of a major scale. In C that is C, F and G. It is the backbone of the blues, rock and roll, folk and country, and many pop songs.
Updated 20 Oct 2026
The chords in every key
| Key | I (1) | IV (4) | V (5) |
|---|---|---|---|
| C | C | F | G |
| G | G | C | D |
| D | D | G | A |
| A | A | D | E |
| E | E | A | B |
| F | F | Bb | C |
| Bb | Bb | Eb | F |
| Eb | Eb | Ab | Bb |
| Ab | Ab | Db | Eb |
| Db | Db | Gb | Ab |
| B | B | E | F# |
| F# | F# | B | C# |
To find 1-4-5 in a key not shown, use the key and capo chart.
Why it works
The I chord feels like home. The IV chord moves away, and the V chord creates tension that wants to return to I. Together they cover most of the notes of the scale, which is why so many melodies fit on top.
How it is used
- As a loop: I, IV, V, I over and over. Simple, strong and easy to play.
- In the basic 12-bar blues: twelve bars using only I, IV and V. See common chord progressions for the pattern.
- Verse and chorus: you can play I-IV-V in the verse and change the order in the chorus.
- With a minor chord added: add the vi chord (A minor in C) for I-vi-IV-V, the 50s progression.
Songs that use it
Twist and Shout, La Bamba and Wild Thing are all built on I-IV-V. Check any song by ear against the key you are in; many add an extra chord or change the order.
How to write with it
- Pick a key your voice fits. Use the table above.
- Play I, IV, V in a steady rhythm and hum until a melody appears.
- Change the order or the length. Hold the V longer, or start on IV.
- Add one chord (the minor vi) to make it yours.
Keep the chords with the song
In songdrafts the key is a field on the song, and the lyrics box keeps your spaces, so on a computer you can write the chords above the words. Every take of the song stacks on one card.
Common questions
What does 1-4-5 mean?
The chords built on the first, fourth and fifth notes of the scale. In C: C, F, G.
Is 1-4-5 the same as I-IV-V?
Yes. The same progression written with numbers or Roman numerals.
What is the 1-4-5 progression in G?
G, C and D.
How many songs use 1-4-5?
A great many, especially in blues, rock and roll, folk and country. No one has an exact count.
What is the difference between 1-4-5 and 1-5-6-4?
1-5-6-4 uses the same I, IV and V plus the minor vi, in the order I, V, vi, IV. See the common progressions guide.
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