♭VII–IV–I in C Major
Pattern: ♭VII – IV – I
Chords: B♭ – F – C
Chord Breakdown
| Numeral | Chord | Type | Function |
|---|---|---|---|
| ♭VII | B♭ (details) | major | Subtonic |
| IV | F (details) | major | Subdominant |
| I | C (details) | major | Tonic |
Harmonic Analysis
This progression moves through B♭ (Subtonic) → F (Subdominant) → C (Tonic).
The ♭VII–IV–I progression chains two plagal (IV–I) motions together, descending by fourths from the borrowed ♭VII through IV to the tonic. This creates a powerful, grounded resolution that avoids dominant-function harmony entirely. It is a hallmark of classic rock and Britpop.
Song Examples
- A Hard Day's Night (opening) — The Beatles
- Champagne Supernova — Oasis