I–vi–IV–ii in D♭ Major
Pattern: I – vi – IV – ii
Chords: D♭ – Bbm – G♭ – Ebm
Chord Breakdown
| Numeral | Chord | Type | Function |
|---|---|---|---|
| I | D♭ (details) | major | Tonic |
| vi | Bbm (details) | minor | Submediant |
| IV | G♭ (details) | major | Subdominant |
| ii | Ebm (details) | minor | Supertonic |
Harmonic Analysis
This progression moves through D♭ (Tonic) → Bbm (Submediant) → G♭ (Subdominant) → Ebm (Supertonic).
The I–vi–IV–ii progression descends by thirds through alternating major and minor chords, creating a smooth, cascading motion. Each chord shares two common tones with the next, producing seamless voice leading. This elegant pattern appears in jazz ballads and sophisticated pop arrangements.
Song Examples
- Georgia on My Mind — Ray Charles
- The Nearness of You — Hoagy Carmichael