D# Minor

The D# minor key is built on the D# natural minor scale and borrows notes and chords from related modes like D# Dorian and D# Phrygian.

C
G
D
A
E
B
VI
F#
III
Db
VII
Ab
Eb
Bb
F
Am
Em
Bm
F#m
C#m
G#m
iv
D#m
i
Bbm
v
Fm
Cm
Gm
Dm
Key signature
6 (F#, C#, G#, D#, A#, E#)
Relative major
Neighboring keys

Chords in this key

  • i
  • ii°
  • III
  • iv
  • v
  • VI
  • VII

Common chord progressions

  • Natural minori – VI – III – VII
  • Minor three-chordi – iv – v
  • Minor popi – VI – iv – V7
  • Minor cadenceii° – V7 – i

In D# Minor, the v is often played as a major V7 for a stronger pull to the tonic.

Borrowed chords

Chords borrowed into D# Minor from outside for extra color.

  • V
  • V7
  • IV
  • bII
  • III+
  • vii°

Modes on this root

Same root as D# Minor, different flavor.