i–iv–v in E Minor

Pattern: i – iv – v Chords: Em – Am – Bm

Chord Breakdown

Numeral	Chord	Type	Function
i	Em (details)	minor	Tonic
iv	Am (details)	minor	Subdominant
v	Bm (details)	minor	Dominant

Harmonic Analysis

This progression moves through Em (Tonic) → Am (Subdominant) → Bm (Dominant).

The i–iv–v progression is the minor-key counterpart to the major I–IV–V. Using all minor chords, it creates a darker, moodier atmosphere that suits blues, rock, and metal styles. Its simplicity makes it an ideal starting point for writing in minor keys.

Song Examples

Ain't No Sunshine, Bill Withers
House of the Rising Sun, The Animals

Chord Details

Em Am Bm

More Progressions in E Minor

i–♭VII–♭VI–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 i–♭III–♭VII–IV

Related Progressions

I–IV–V–major i–♭VII–♭VI–V