F major · I – vi – IV – V

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

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

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

The chords

NumeralChordEasiest shape
IF10321x
viDmxx0231
IVBbx10331
VCx32010

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 F major

F major contains the notes F, G, A, Bb, C, D, E. See the full F 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# majorG majorAb majorA majorBb majorB major

Other progressions in F 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 F major?

F – Dm – Bb – C.

What notes are in F major?

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

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

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

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