i–iv–♭VI–V in E Minor

Pattern: i – iv – ♭VI – V Chords: Em – Am – C – B

Chord Breakdown

Numeral	Chord	Type	Function
i	Em (details)	minor	Tonic
iv	Am (details)	minor	Subdominant
♭VI	C (details)	major	Submediant
V	B (details)	major	Dominant

Harmonic Analysis

This progression moves through Em (Tonic) → Am (Subdominant) → C (Submediant) → B (Dominant).

The i–iv–♭VI–V progression builds drama through a natural minor ascent before resolving with a major dominant. The contrast between the soft ♭VI and the bright V creates a powerful emotional pivot. This progression is a favorite in power ballads and cinematic pop.

Song Examples

Rolling in the Deep — Adele
Bring Me to Life — Evanescence

Chord Details

Em Am C B

More Progressions in E Minor

i–♭VII–♭VI–V i–iv–v vi–IV–I–V i–iv–i–V iv–iv–i–V i–iv–i i–iv–V vi–V–IV–III i–♭VII i–♭III–♭VII i–♭VII–IV i–♭VII–♭VI