i–iv–♭VII–V in C♯ Minor
Pattern: i – iv – ♭VII – V
Chords: C♯m – F♯m – B – G♯
Chord Breakdown
| Numeral | Chord | Type | Function |
|---|---|---|---|
| i | C♯m (details) | minor | Tonic |
| iv | F♯m (details) | minor | Subdominant |
| ♭VII | B (details) | major | Subtonic |
| V | G♯ (details) | major | Dominant |
Harmonic Analysis
This progression moves through C♯m (Tonic) → F♯m (Subdominant) → B (Subtonic) → G♯ (Dominant).
The i–iv–♭VII–V progression moves through the minor subdominant and subtonic before landing on a dominant V for resolution. The ♭VII-to-V motion creates a distinctive whole-step drop that adds tension before the cadence. This pattern works well in dramatic rock verses and pre-choruses.
Song Examples
- Somebody to Love — Queen
- Take Me to Church — Hozier