i–v–♭VI–♭VII in G Minor
Pattern: i – v – ♭VI – ♭VII
Chords: Gm – Dm – E♭ – F
Chord Breakdown
| Numeral | Chord | Type | Function |
|---|---|---|---|
| i | Gm (details) | minor | Tonic |
| v | Dm (details) | minor | Dominant |
| ♭VI | E♭ (details) | major | Submediant |
| ♭VII | F (details) | major | Subtonic |
Harmonic Analysis
This progression moves through Gm (Tonic) → Dm (Dominant) → E♭ (Submediant) → F (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