I–IV–V (Three-Chord) (I–IV–V)

The I–IV–V (Three-Chord) progression: I–IV–V — in the example key of G, that is G – C – D.

The three chords that built rock and roll: tonic, subdominant, and dominant, all major. Learn I, IV, and V in any key and you can strum along with a huge share of popular music. In the example key of G the chords are G – C – D. Songs built on it include Twist and Shout; La Bamba; Wild Thing. Its mood palette leans happy.