i–♭III–♭VI–♭VII in F♯ Minor
Pattern: i – ♭III – ♭VI – ♭VII
Chords: F♯m – A – D – E
Chord Breakdown
| Numeral | Chord | Type | Function |
|---|---|---|---|
| i | F♯m (details) | minor | Tonic |
| ♭III | A (details) | major | Mediant |
| ♭VI | D (details) | major | Submediant |
| ♭VII | E (details) | major | Subtonic |
Harmonic Analysis
This progression moves through F♯m (Tonic) → A (Mediant) → D (Submediant) → E (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