I–IV–ii–V: Summer Pop Cycle
A–D–Bm7–E7 is a functional loop that feels instantly “songlike” because it touches tonic, subdominant, predominant, and dominant in one cycle. The ii chord (Bm7) acts like a smooth setup for E7, and the dominant brings you right back to A, so the progression can repeat endlessly while the groove evolves. That makes it ideal for funk-pop rhythm guitar, disco-leaning bass parts, and bright choruses where the harmony should stay supportive. On guitar, use short, muted stabs on beats two and four; the 7ths will add color without crowding the rhythm. On bass, connect D to B with a descending line to make the transition feel like a hook. For melody writing, highlight C# over A and D, then hit D# over E7 to make the return to A feel satisfying and inevitable.
- Key
- A major
- Tempo
- 126 BPM
- Groove
- funk
Play it on guitar
Start slow, keep your right hand steady, and aim for clean changes on the downbeats. Once it’s comfortable, add a groove and increase tempo.
Capo suggestion: try capo 0 and play in A shapes for open chords.
Chords: A – D – Bm7 – E7
Roman numerals & theory
Roman numerals describe the chord’s function relative to the key. This helps you transpose the “shape” to any key without memorizing new chord names.
In A major: I–IV–IImaj7–V7
Variations (keep the progression, change the feel)
- • Add 7ths for color (try maj7 on I, m7 on vi, and V7 before resolving).
- • Use a sus4 resolve on the V chord (e.g. Gsus4 → G) to create tension and release.
- • Change the rhythm instead of the chords: try anticipations (hit the next chord on the “and” of 4).
- • Arpeggiate the top notes to create a hook while the harmony stays the same.
- • Borrow a darker chord for contrast (in a major key, try iv for one bar before returning).
Related
FAQ
Select a chord below to start building your progression