I–♭II–I in D Major
Pattern: I – ♭II – I
Chords: D – E♭ – D
Chord Breakdown
| Numeral | Chord | Type | Function |
|---|---|---|---|
| I | D (details) | major | Tonic |
| ♭II | E♭ (details) | major | Supertonic |
| I | D (details) | major | Tonic |
Harmonic Analysis
This progression moves through D (Tonic) → E♭ (Supertonic) → D (Tonic).
A striking chromatic movement that lifts the harmony a half step to the Neapolitan chord before returning to the tonic. This creates a momentary sense of displacement and tension that resolves immediately.
Song Examples
- Lady Bird — Tadd Dameron
- Moment's Notice — John Coltrane