D major · I – vi – IV – V

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

In D major the I-vi-IV-V (50s progression) progression is D – Bm – G – A.

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

The chords

NumeralChordEasiest shape
IDxx0232
viBmx20402
IVG32000x
VAx02220

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 D major

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

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

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

Other progressions in D 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 D major?

D – Bm – G – A.

What notes are in D major?

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

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

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

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