vi–IV–I–V in E major

Play vi–IV–I–V in any key with guitar-friendly chord spellings, capo ideas, and an instant load into the ChordFlow builder.

Chords

C#m — A — E — B

Open in Builder Pattern overview

Guitar tip: try capo 0 and play in E shapes for comfortable open chords.

Why it works

vi–IV–I–V is an emotional, loop-friendly progression that works well for verses and choruses. Starting on vi gives it a reflective pull before the brighter lift back to I and V.

If you’re writing for vocals, use a capo to match the singer while keeping the same right-hand groove and familiar left-hand 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

Is vi–IV–I–V the same as I–V–vi–IV?

They use the same diatonic chords in a major key, but the order changes the emotional “story.” Starting on vi feels more reflective; starting on I feels more stable and immediate.

How can I create a chorus lift from vi–IV–I–V?

Try adding a V7 before returning to vi, or push dynamics and rhythm density in the last two chords (I–V) to build momentum into the loop.

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.