plagal cadence explained
A cadence moving from the subdominant chord to the tonic (IV–I), often called the Amen cadence
In Depth
The plagal cadence offers a softer, more restful alternative to the stronger authentic cadence (V–I). Its association with the word Amen comes from its traditional use at the end of hymns, where a IV–I progression accompanies the final Amen. In popular music, the plagal cadence is everywhere — it is the chord change at the heart of countless rock, soul, and gospel songs. The minor plagal cadence (iv–I) adds a bittersweet quality through its borrowed flat sixth degree.
The plagal cadence is sometimes called the church cadence because of its association with hymn endings, though it is equally at home in blues and rock.