i–v–♭VI–♭VII in E♭ Minor
Pattern: i – v – ♭VI – ♭VII
Chords: Ebm – Bbm – B – D♭
Chord Breakdown
| Numeral | Chord | Type | Function |
|---|---|---|---|
| i | Ebm (details) | minor | Tonic |
| v | Bbm (details) | minor | Dominant |
| ♭VI | B (details) | major | Submediant |
| ♭VII | D♭ (details) | major | Subtonic |
Harmonic Analysis
This progression moves through Ebm (Tonic) → Bbm (Dominant) → B (Submediant) → D♭ (Subtonic).
The i–v–♭VI–♭VII progression steps upward through the natural minor scale, creating a steadily building momentum. The minor v (rather than a major V) keeps the sound firmly in Aeolian territory. This ascending pattern is common in epic rock and cinematic compositions.
Song Examples
- Comfortably Numb (verse) — Pink Floyd
- Space Oddity — David Bowie