i–♭VI–♭III–♭VII in B♭ Minor
Pattern: i – ♭VI – ♭III – ♭VII
Chords: Bbm – G♭ – D♭ – A♭
Chord Breakdown
| Numeral | Chord | Type | Function |
|---|---|---|---|
| i | Bbm (details) | minor | Tonic |
| ♭VI | G♭ (details) | major | Submediant |
| ♭III | D♭ (details) | major | Mediant |
| ♭VII | A♭ (details) | major | Subtonic |
Harmonic Analysis
This progression moves through Bbm (Tonic) → G♭ (Submediant) → D♭ (Mediant) → A♭ (Subtonic).
The i–♭VI–♭III–♭VII progression cascades through the natural minor scale using only major chords. Each chord root drops by a third, creating a smooth, flowing motion. This all-major-chord cycle in a minor key gives the progression an epic, anthemic quality.
Song Examples
- Save Tonight — Eagle-Eye Cherry
- What I've Done — Linkin Park