I-V-vi-IV Chord Progression in Ab major
In Ab major the I-V-vi-IV progression is Ab – Eb – Fm – Db.
The best-known pop progression ever written. It uses only four chords and works in every key. Let It Be, No Woman No Cry and With or Without You all follow this pattern.
The chords
| Numeral | Chord | Easiest shape |
|---|---|---|
| I | Ab | 43111x |
| V | Eb | x65046 |
| vi | Fm | xx3111 |
| IV | Db | 98666x |
How to practise
Strum it with simple down-ups and change chords on beat one of each bar. When the changes feel natural, add a bass-note walk between chords.
- 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-V-vi-IV in other keys
Other progressions in Ab major
FAQ
What are the chords of I-V-vi-IV in Ab major?
Ab – Eb – Fm – Db.
What notes are in Ab major?
Ab major contains Ab, Bb, C, Db, Eb, F, G.
Which scale can I solo with over I-V-vi-IV in Ab major?
The Ab major scale fits, and the major pentatonic scale from Ab is the easiest choice.
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