I–♭VII–♭VI in D Major

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

Chord Breakdown

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

Harmonic Analysis

This progression moves through D (Tonic) → C (Subtonic) → B♭ (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

D C B♭

More Progressions in D 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