i–♭VII–IV in F♯ Minor
Pattern: i – ♭VII – IV
Chords: F♯m – E – B
Chord Breakdown
| Numeral | Chord | Type | Function |
|---|---|---|---|
| i | F♯m (details) | minor | Tonic |
| ♭VII | E (details) | major | Subtonic |
| IV | B (details) | major | Subdominant |
Harmonic Analysis
This progression moves through F♯m (Tonic) → E (Subtonic) → B (Subdominant).
The i–♭VII–IV progression descends stepwise from the minor tonic through the subtonic to the subdominant, creating a classic Dorian-flavored sound. The major IV chord (borrowed from Dorian mode) gives it a brighter quality than typical minor progressions. It appears frequently in rock and folk music.
Song Examples
- Oye Como Va, Santana
- Smoke on the Water, Deep Purple