i–♭VI–♭III–♭VII in G Minor
Pattern: i – ♭VI – ♭III – ♭VII
Chords: Gm – E♭ – B♭ – F
Chord Breakdown
| Numeral | Chord | Type | Function |
|---|---|---|---|
| i | Gm (details) | minor | Tonic |
| ♭VI | E♭ (details) | major | Submediant |
| ♭III | B♭ (details) | major | Mediant |
| ♭VII | F (details) | major | Subtonic |
Harmonic Analysis
This progression moves through Gm (Tonic) → E♭ (Submediant) → B♭ (Mediant) → F (Subtonic).
The i–♭VI–♭III–♭VII progression cycles through the natural minor scale's major chords in a pattern that emphasizes power and drive. The falling-third motion from ♭VI to ♭III and rising fourth to ♭VII creates a headbanging rhythmic feel. This progression is ubiquitous in heavy metal and punk rock.
Song Examples
- The Number of the Beast — Iron Maiden
- Welcome Home (Sanitarium) — Metallica