I–♭VII–I in B♭ Major
Pattern: I – ♭VII – I
Chords: B♭ – A♭ – B♭
Chord Breakdown
| Numeral | Chord | Type | Function |
|---|---|---|---|
| I | B♭ (details) | major | Tonic |
| ♭VII | A♭ (details) | major | Subtonic |
| I | B♭ (details) | major | Tonic |
Harmonic Analysis
This progression moves through B♭ (Tonic) → A♭ (Subtonic) → B♭ (Tonic).
Using the flat seventh chord borrowed from the Mixolydian mode, this progression creates a gritty, bluesy slide effect. The ♭VII adds a raw, rebellious quality that defines blues rock.
Song Examples
- Sympathy for the Devil — The Rolling Stones
- Whole Lotta Love — Led Zeppelin