I–♭III–♭VII–IV in D Major

Pattern: I – ♭III – ♭VII – IV   Chords: D – F – C – G

Chord Breakdown

NumeralChordTypeFunction
I D (details) major Tonic
♭III F (details) major Mediant
♭VII C (details) major Subtonic
IV G (details) major Subdominant

Harmonic Analysis

This progression moves through D (Tonic) → F (Mediant) → C (Subtonic) → G (Subdominant).

The I–♭III–♭VII–IV progression blends Mixolydian and Dorian borrowings into a four-chord rock loop. The ♭III and ♭VII add modal color while the IV provides a familiar landing point. This pattern is a staple of arena rock and jam-band music.

Song Examples

Chord Details

More Progressions in D Major