i–V–♭VI–IV in G Minor
Pattern: i – V – ♭VI – IV
Chords: Gm – D – E♭ – C
Chord Breakdown
| Numeral | Chord | Type | Function |
|---|---|---|---|
| i | Gm (details) | minor | Tonic |
| V | D (details) | major | Dominant |
| ♭VI | E♭ (details) | major | Submediant |
| IV | C (details) | major | Subdominant |
Harmonic Analysis
This progression moves through Gm (Tonic) → D (Dominant) → E♭ (Submediant) → C (Subdominant).
The i–V–♭VI–IV progression mixes harmonic minor's dominant V with natural minor's ♭VI and a borrowed major IV. This chromatic blend creates a sophisticated, emotionally complex cycle. It appears in modern pop and rock where songwriters seek a darker twist on familiar progressions.
Song Examples
- If I Lose Myself — OneRepublic
- Uprising — Muse