I–V–vi–IV in B major

Play I–V–vi–IV in any key with guitar-friendly chord spellings, capo tips, and a one-click link to load it in the ChordFlow builder.

Chords

B — F# — Abm — E

Open in Builder Pattern overview

Guitar tip: try capo 2 and play in A shapes for comfortable open chords.

Why it works

I–V–vi–IV is a modern pop staple because it balances stability (I), lift (V), emotion (vi), and warmth (IV). If you can loop it cleanly with a groove, you can write dozens of believable song sections fast.

On guitar, this pattern is extra useful because you can transpose it to singer-friendly keys with a capo while keeping comfortable open-chord shapes.

More keys

Same pattern, different singer range.

C major C# major D major Eb major E major F major F# major G major Ab major A major Bb major B major

FAQ

What songs use I–V–vi–IV?

It shows up in countless pop and rock choruses. Instead of memorizing a list, learn the sound and practice it in multiple keys so you can recognize it by ear and write with it on demand.

How do I make I–V–vi–IV sound less generic on guitar?

Keep the chords but change the feel: use syncopated strumming, add sus4 resolves on V, add 7ths (especially V7), or arpeggiate the top notes to create a hook without changing harmony.

Can I load this progression into the builder?

Yes — use “Open in Builder” to practice it with tempo and groove controls, then tweak chords and rhythm to make it your own.