i–iv–♭VI–♭VII in A Minor
Pattern: i – iv – ♭VI – ♭VII
Chords: Am – Dm – F – G
Chord Breakdown
| Numeral | Chord | Type | Function |
|---|---|---|---|
| i | Am (details) | minor | Tonic |
| iv | Dm (details) | minor | Subdominant |
| ♭VI | F (details) | major | Submediant |
| ♭VII | G (details) | major | Subtonic |
Harmonic Analysis
This progression moves through Am (Tonic) → Dm (Subdominant) → F (Submediant) → G (Subtonic).
The i–iv–♭VI–♭VII progression steadily ascends through the natural minor scale, building energy with each chord change. The stepwise climb from iv through ♭VI to ♭VII creates an unstoppable upward momentum. This pattern is common in alternative rock buildups and anthem choruses.
Song Examples
- Boulevard of Broken Dreams — Green Day
- In the End — Linkin Park