i-VI-III-VII Chord Progression in D minor
In D minor the i-VI-III-VII progression is Dm – Bb – F – C.
A powerful minor-key progression that moves through the major chords of the relative major key. Zombie by The Cranberries follows this pattern.
The chords
| Numeral | Chord | Easiest shape |
|---|---|---|
| i | Dm | xx0231 |
| VI | Bb | x10331 |
| III | F | 10321x |
| VII | C | x32010 |
How to practise
Use power chords for a rock sound or open chords for a folk sound.
- Play one chord per bar at 60 BPM with a simple down-strum on each beat.
- Raise the tempo by 5 BPM once you can play eight rounds without a mistake.
- Change the strumming pattern: down, down-up, up-down-up.
Key facts about D minor
D minor contains the notes D, E, F, G, A, Bb, C. See the full D Natural Minor scale with fretboard diagrams, and use it to solo over the progression.
i-VI-III-VII in other keys
Other progressions in D minor
FAQ
What are the chords of i-VI-III-VII in D minor?
Dm – Bb – F – C.
What notes are in D minor?
D minor contains D, E, F, G, A, Bb, C.
Which scale can I solo with over i-VI-III-VII in D minor?
The D minor scale fits, and the minor pentatonic scale from D is the easiest choice.
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