I–iii–IV–V in B Major
Pattern: I – iii – IV – V
Chords: B – D♯m – E – F♯
Chord Breakdown
| Numeral | Chord | Type | Function |
|---|---|---|---|
| I | B (details) | major | Tonic |
| iii | D♯m (details) | minor | Mediant |
| IV | E (details) | major | Subdominant |
| V | F♯ (details) | major | Dominant |
Harmonic Analysis
This progression moves through B (Tonic) → D♯m (Mediant) → E (Subdominant) → F♯ (Dominant).
The iii chord acts as a smooth stepping stone between I and IV, adding a touch of minor color. This creates an elegant, ascending quality that works beautifully in ballads and mid-tempo songs.
Song Examples
- Every Breath You Take — The Police
- Grow Old with Me — John Lennon