vi–IV–I–V (vi–IV–I–V)

The vi–IV–I–V progression: vi–IV–I–V — in the example key of C, that is Am – F – C – G.

The 'Axis' progression reordered to start on the relative minor, giving the same four chords a moodier, more urgent opening. Because it shares its chords with I-V-vi-IV, songs in this progression often feel like cousins of doo-wop and pop-rock hits. In the example key of C the chords are Am – F – C – G. Songs built on it include Zombie; Grenade; Africa. Its mood palette leans sad.