i–iv–i–V in B Minor
Pattern: i – iv – i – V
Chords: Bm – Em – Bm – F♯
Chord Breakdown
| Numeral | Chord | Type | Function |
|---|---|---|---|
| i | Bm (details) | minor | Tonic |
| iv | Em (details) | minor | Subdominant |
| i | Bm (details) | minor | Tonic |
| V | F♯ (details) | major | Dominant |
Harmonic Analysis
This progression moves through Bm (Tonic) → Em (Subdominant) → Bm (Tonic) → F♯ (Dominant).
This minor blues cycle uses a minor tonic and subdominant with a major dominant for a dark, brooding feel. The major V chord at the end provides the pull back to the tonic, creating dramatic tension.
Song Examples
- Black Magic Woman, Fleetwood Mac
- All Along the Watchtower, Bob Dylan