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i - VII - VI - V

Also known as the Andalusian cadence.

A descending progression rooted in flamenco and in classical practice going back centuries, walking down by step from the tonic through the flattened seventh and sixth degrees before landing on a major V. The dramatic, slightly fatalistic pull of that descent has made it a favorite well beyond its Spanish origins, in everything from rock to film scoring.

Hear it in different keys

In A minor

im Am VII G VI F V E

In E minor

im Em VII D VI C V B

Roman numerals show scale degree and quality: uppercase for major, lowercase for minor, a small circle for diminished. Tap any chord above to open its full page, with a diagram and playback.