C# Epic Borrowed Chords

I – bVI – bIII – bVII progression in C# major

C♯ major
Chords
Triads7th Chords
Instrument
GuitarUkuleleBass
Harmony
Originalii–V–ISec. Dom.
IC#
bVIA
bIIIE
bVIIB

Triad Diagrams — C# Epic Borrowed Chords (Guitar)

C# Epic Borrowed ChordsI – bVI – bIII – bVII

The C# I–bVI–bIII–bVII progression (C# – A – E – B) borrows chords from the parallel minor to create an instantly cinematic, heroic atmosphere. The contrast between bright and dark chords is powerful. With sevenths (C#Maj7 – AMaj7 – EMaj7 – B7), it becomes even more grandiose.

Contemporary / FilmEpic & Heroic4/4 · 4 bars

Chords (triads): C#, A, E, B.

Chords (7th): C#Maj7, AMaj7, EMaj7, B7.

Famous songs using this progression

  • Rolling in the Deep – Adele
  • Viva la Vida – Coldplay