50s Doo-Wop (Stand By Me)

I → vi → IV → V

Position
C chord diagramGuitar chord fingering for C: string 6: muted, string 5: fret 3, string 4: fret 2, string 3: open, string 2: fret 1, string 1: open×C
Am chord diagramGuitar chord fingering for Am: string 6: muted, string 5: open, string 4: fret 2, string 3: fret 2, string 2: fret 1, string 1: open×Am
F chord diagramGuitar chord fingering for F: string 6: fret 1, string 5: fret 3, string 4: fret 3, string 3: fret 2, string 2: fret 1, string 1: fret 1F
G chord diagramGuitar chord fingering for G: string 6: fret 3, string 5: fret 2, string 4: open, string 3: open, string 2: open, string 1: fret 3G
100

About

The classic doo-wop progression from the 1940s-60s. Creates an instantly nostalgic, romantic feel. Also called the 'Heart and Soul' or 'Stand By Me' changes.

Songs using this progression

  • Stand By Me — Ben E. King
  • Earth Angel — The Penguins
  • Every Breath You Take — The Police
Doo-WopPopR&BBalladnostalgicromanticclassictimeless

Related progressions

Sad Ballad (Axis Progression)
I → V → vi → IV
PopRock
Pachelbel's Canon
I → V → vi → iii → IV → I → IV → V
ClassicalPop