I-IV-V Chord Progression in Ab major
In Ab major the I-IV-V progression is Ab – Db – Eb.
The three-chord foundation of rock and roll, folk and country. La Bamba and Twist and Shout are built on these three chords.
The chords
| Numeral | Chord | Easiest shape |
|---|---|---|
| I | Ab | 43111x |
| IV | Db | 98666x |
| V | Eb | x65046 |
How to practise
Learn this one in the open keys (C, G, D, A, E) first. Together they cover hundreds of songs.
- Play one chord per bar at 60 BPM with a simple down-strum on each beat.
- Raise the tempo by 5 BPM once you can play eight rounds without a mistake.
- Change the strumming pattern: down, down-up, up-down-up.
Key facts about Ab major
Ab major contains the notes Ab, Bb, C, Db, Eb, F, G. See the full Ab Major scale with fretboard diagrams, and use it to solo over the progression.
I-IV-V in other keys
Other progressions in Ab major
FAQ
What are the chords of I-IV-V in Ab major?
Ab – Db – Eb.
What notes are in Ab major?
Ab major contains Ab, Bb, C, Db, Eb, F, G.
Which scale can I solo with over I-IV-V in Ab major?
The Ab major scale fits, and the major pentatonic scale from Ab is the easiest choice.
Get one useful guitar tip a week
New chord guides, practice ideas and app updates. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.