C major · I – vi – IV – V

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

In C major the I-vi-IV-V (50s progression) progression is C – Am – F – G.

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

The chords

NumeralChordEasiest shape
ICx32010
viAmx02210
IVF10321x
VG32000x

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 C major

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

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

Db majorD majorEb majorE majorF majorF# majorG majorAb majorA majorBb majorB major

Other progressions in C 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 C major?

C – Am – F – G.

What notes are in C major?

C major contains C, D, E, F, G, A, B.

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

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

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