i–♭III–♭VI–♭VII in E♭ Minor
Pattern: i – ♭III – ♭VI – ♭VII
Chords: Ebm – G♭ – B – D♭
Chord Breakdown
| Numeral | Chord | Type | Function |
|---|---|---|---|
| i | Ebm (details) | minor | Tonic |
| ♭III | G♭ (details) | major | Mediant |
| ♭VI | B (details) | major | Submediant |
| ♭VII | D♭ (details) | major | Subtonic |
Harmonic Analysis
This progression moves through Ebm (Tonic) → G♭ (Mediant) → B (Submediant) → D♭ (Subtonic).
The i–♭III–♭VI–♭VII progression cycles through the natural minor scale's major chords, creating a wheel-like harmonic motion. Each chord provides a bright contrast to the minor tonic, giving the progression an anthemic, soaring quality. It is common in alternative rock and post-punk.
Song Examples
- Wake Me Up When September Ends — Green Day
- Numb — Linkin Park