D Epic Borrowed Chords

I – bVI – bIII – bVII progression in D major

D major
Chords
Triads7th Chords
Instrument
GuitarUkuleleBass
Harmony
Originalii–V–ISec. Dom.
ID
bVIB♭
bIIIF
bVIIC

Triad Diagrams — D Epic Borrowed Chords (Guitar)

D Epic Borrowed ChordsI – bVI – bIII – bVII

The D I–bVI–bIII–bVII progression (D – Bb – F – C) borrows chords from the parallel minor to create an instantly cinematic, heroic atmosphere. The contrast between bright and dark chords is powerful. With sevenths (DMaj7 – BbMaj7 – FMaj7 – C7), it becomes even more grandiose.

Contemporary / FilmEpic & Heroic4/4 · 4 bars

Chords (triads): D, Bb, F, C.

Chords (7th): DMaj7, BbMaj7, FMaj7, C7.

Famous songs using this progression

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