I–V–vi–ii in D♭ Major
Pattern: I – V – vi – ii
Chords: D♭ – A♭ – Bbm – Ebm
Chord Breakdown
| Numeral | Chord | Type | Function |
|---|---|---|---|
| I | D♭ (details) | major | Tonic |
| V | A♭ (details) | major | Dominant |
| vi | Bbm (details) | minor | Submediant |
| ii | Ebm (details) | minor | Supertonic |
Harmonic Analysis
This progression moves through D♭ (Tonic) → A♭ (Dominant) → Bbm (Submediant) → Ebm (Supertonic).
The I–V–vi–ii progression descends through the circle of fifths, creating smooth harmonic motion that naturally wants to continue to V and resolve. This falling-fifths pattern generates elegant forward momentum. It appears in pop ballads and jazz-influenced songwriting.
Song Examples
- Can't Help Falling in Love — Elvis Presley
- All of Me — John Legend