Bb major · I – vi – IV – V

I-vi-IV-V (50s progression) Chord Progression in Bb major

In Bb major the I-vi-IV-V (50s progression) progression is Bb – Gm – Eb – F.

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The "doo-wop" progression of the 1950s and 60s. Stand By Me is the classic example.

The chords

NumeralChordEasiest shape
IBbx10331
viGm3100xx
IVEbx65046
VF10321x

How to practise

Swing the strumming with a slight triplet feel to get the doo-wop vibe.

  1. Play one chord per bar at 60 BPM with a simple down-strum on each beat.
  2. Raise the tempo by 5 BPM once you can play eight rounds without a mistake.
  3. Change the strumming pattern: down, down-up, up-down-up.

Key facts about Bb major

Bb major contains the notes Bb, C, D, Eb, F, G, A. See the full Bb Major scale with fretboard diagrams, and use it to solo over the progression.

I-vi-IV-V (50s progression) in other keys

C majorDb majorD majorEb majorE majorF majorF# majorG majorAb majorA majorB major

Other progressions in Bb major

I-V-vi-IVI-IV-V12-Bar Bluesvi-IV-I-Vii-V-ICanon Progression

FAQ

What are the chords of I-vi-IV-V (50s progression) in Bb major?

Bb – Gm – Eb – F.

What notes are in Bb major?

Bb major contains Bb, C, D, Eb, F, G, A.

Which scale can I solo with over I-vi-IV-V (50s progression) in Bb major?

The Bb major scale fits, and the major pentatonic scale from Bb is the easiest choice.

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