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