Final answer:
The four chords featured in many rock, soul, and R&B hits are the 'I', 'IV', 'V', and 'vi' chords, which in the key of C major correspond to C, F, G, and A minor. These chords form the basis of the 'four-chord progression,' a common and versatile songwriting tool. Songs like 'Blue Suede Shoes' and 'Maybellene' are examples of this progression's widespread usage.
Step-by-step explanation:
The 4 chords often featured in rock, soul, and R&B hit singles are known as the 'I', 'IV', 'V', and 'vi' chords in Roman numeral analysis. These chords are the foundation for the widely-used 'I-IV-V-vi' chord progression, also referred to as the 'four-chord progression'. When transposed into the key of C major, these chords are C major ('I'), F major ('IV'), G major ('V') and A minor ('vi'). This progression and variations of it have become a staple in these genres due to their pleasing tonal relationships and versatility.
Examples of hit singles that use these chords include classics such as 'Blue Suede Shoes' by Carl Perkins, which bridged the pop, R&B, and country music charts. Another example is 'Maybellene' by Chuck Berry, which showcases the cross-pollination of musical styles across different ethnic groups, with Berry, an African-American artist, incorporating elements from white musicians. The persistent use of this chord combination helps to create catchy and memorable songs that resonate with large audiences.