I–♭VII–♭VI in C Major

Pattern: I – ♭VII – ♭VI Chords: C – B♭ – A♭

Chord Breakdown

Numeral	Chord	Type	Function
I	C (details)	major	Tonic
♭VII	B♭ (details)	major	Subtonic
♭VI	A♭ (details)	major	Submediant

Harmonic Analysis

This progression moves through C (Tonic) → B♭ (Subtonic) → A♭ (Submediant).

The I–♭VII–♭VI progression descends chromatically through borrowed major chords, creating a dramatic, cinematic quality from a major starting point. This stepwise descent evokes tension and grandeur. It is a favorite in classic rock and power ballads.

Song Examples

Stairway to Heaven (interlude) — Led Zeppelin
The Trooper — Iron Maiden

Chord Details

C B♭ A♭

More Progressions in C Major

I–IV–V–I I–V–vi–IV I–vi–IV–V ii–V–I I–IV–V I–♭VII–IV vi–IV–I–V I–V–vi–iii–IV–I–IV–V I–IV I–V IV–V IV–I