i–♭III–iv in G♯ Minor
Pattern: i – ♭III – iv
Chords: G♯m – B – C♯m
Chord Breakdown
| Numeral | Chord | Type | Function |
|---|---|---|---|
| i | G♯m (details) | minor | Tonic |
| ♭III | B (details) | major | Mediant |
| iv | C♯m (details) | minor | Subdominant |
Harmonic Analysis
This progression moves through G♯m (Tonic) → B (Mediant) → C♯m (Subdominant).
The i–♭III–iv progression gently sways between the minor tonic, its relative major, and the subdominant minor. The ♭III provides a momentary lift before the iv settles back into melancholy. This simple three-chord pattern is effective in folk songs and acoustic ballads.
Song Examples
- The House of the Rising Sun — The Animals
- Scarborough Fair — Simon & Garfunkel