A Blend of Music, Brain Science, and Evolution
Some of you might not play music (YET!) but have you ever listened to a song and thought, “This seems so familiar”? Chances are, it’s using the I-V-vi-IV chord progression. I call it the hit maker! Excuse me while I get music geeky. This sequence of chords shows up everywhere, from timeless classics to today’s hits. So what makes it such a favourite? Let’s explore with a mix of music theory, brain science, and human psychology.
What Is the I-V-vi-IV Progression?
This progression is built around four simple chords in a key.
For example the Key of C has 7 chords and numbers for each: C (I), Dm (II), Em (III), F (IV), G (V), Am (vi), Bdim (VII)
- I (Tonic): The home base, where everything feels stable.
- V (Dominant): The chord that creates tension and makes you crave resolution.
- vi (Relative Minor): A slightly sadder chord that adds emotional depth.
- IV (Subdominant): A satisfying chord that resolves the journey.
These chords work together to tell a story—a little tension, some emotion, and a resolution—all the ingredients for a song that sticks with you.
Why Does It Feel So Good?
It’s not just your ears enjoying this progression—your brain is loving it too. Here’s how:
- A Touch of Bittersweet: The vi chord adds just enough melancholy to contrast with the brighter I, V, and IV chords, creating a mix of emotions that keeps you hooked.
- Brain Chemistry Boost: Listening to music releases dopamine—the feel-good chemical. The predictability of this progression feels comforting, and its subtle emotional shifts keep it interesting.
- Familiarity: You’ve heard this progression in so many songs that it feels like an old friend. Our brains are wired to enjoy recognizing patterns, which makes this progression even more satisfying.
Why Are We Hardwired to Love It?
Humans are natural pattern seekers. It’s an instinct that helped early humans survive by spotting danger or finding resources. Music taps into this ability, offering a mix of predictability and surprise. The I-V-vi-IV progression strikes that perfect balance, making it feel both exciting and comforting.
Music also brings people together. Whether it’s a campfire singalong or a stadium concert, universally appealing songs create shared experiences. This progression’s emotional pull helps make those moments unforgettable.
What the Research Says
Scientists and music experts have dug into why this progression is so appealing:
- Studies by researchers like Blood and Zatorre (2001) show that music activates parts of the brain tied to reward and emotion.
- Music theorist David Huron explains how anticipation and resolution in music create emotional highs, something this progression does beautifully.
- Cultural studies suggest that exposure to Western music has shaped how our brains respond to chord patterns, making progressions like I-V-vi-IV feel almost universal.
Why It’s Here to Stay
The I-V-vi-IV progression is timeless because it’s both simple and emotionally rich. It’s easy to remember but has enough depth to keep listeners hooked. Whether it’s The Beatles, Adele, or Ed Sheeran, this progression is likely behind some of your favorite songs.
As scientists continue exploring how music affects the brain, we’ll keep uncovering why certain patterns resonate so deeply. For now, the I-V-vi-IV progression is a perfect example of how music connects us all—one song at a time.
About the Author: Noel Wentworth
