i–♭III–♭VII–IV in F♯ Minor
Pattern: i – ♭III – ♭VII – IV
Chords: F♯m – A – E – B
Chord Breakdown
| Numeral | Chord | Type | Function |
|---|---|---|---|
| i | F♯m (details) | minor | Tonic |
| ♭III | A (details) | major | Mediant |
| ♭VII | E (details) | major | Subtonic |
| IV | B (details) | major | Subdominant |
Harmonic Analysis
This progression moves through F♯m (Tonic) → A (Mediant) → E (Subtonic) → B (Subdominant).
The i–♭III–♭VII–IV progression combines natural minor chords with a Dorian major IV, creating a rich modal loop. The ♭III provides brightness while the major IV adds an unexpected lift. This pattern is common in progressive and alternative rock.
Song Examples
- Eleanor Rigby, The Beatles
- Radioactive, Imagine Dragons