I–♭VII–♭VI in E Major

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

Chord Breakdown

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

Harmonic Analysis

This progression moves through E (Tonic) → D (Subtonic) → C (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

E D C

More Progressions in E 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