Key of Db - The Db Major Scale

Notes in the Db Major Scale:

DbEbFGbAbBbC

The key of Db contains 7 notes: Db, Eb, F, Gb, Ab, Bb, C.This major key has a bright, uplifting sound and is one of the most common keys in popular music.

Chords in the Key of Db

I
I
Db major

Chord details coming soon

ii
ii
Eb minor
iii
iii
F minor
IV
IV
Gb major

Chord details coming soon

V
V
Ab major
vi
vi
Bb minor
vii°
vii°
C diminished

Common Chord Progressions

I - V - vi - IV
Pop progression
I
Db major
→
V
Ab major
→
vi
Bb minor
→
IV
Gb major
I - IV - V
Classic rock
I
Db major
→
IV
Gb major
→
V
Ab major
I - vi - IV - V
50s progression
I
Db major
→
vi
Bb minor
→
IV
Gb major
→
V
Ab major
ii - V - I
Jazz cadence
ii
Eb minor
→
V
Ab major
→
I
Db major
Db Major Scale Pattern

The Db Major scale follows the pattern of W-W-H-W-W-W-H (whole and half steps).

Scale formula: Db - Eb - F - Gb - Ab - Bb - C

Key signature: 5 flats

Understanding the Key of Db

Scale Degrees

Each chord in the key is built on a scale degree. Roman numerals show the chord's position in the scale. Uppercase = major chords, lowercase = minor chords.

Tonic Chord

The I chord (Db major) is the tonic - the "home" chord that provides resolution and stability.

Dominant Chord

The V chord (Ab major) creates tension that naturally wants to resolve back to the tonic.