The ii-V-I progression is the foundation of most jazz harmony, linking chords in a way that creates smooth, satisfying movement and a sense of resolution. It’s used in countless jazz standards and provides a framework for both composition and improvisation.
- ii: Minor chord, the "preparation" (e.g., Dm7 in C major)
- V: Dominant chord, creates tension (e.g., G7)
- I: Major chord, provides resolution (e.g., Cmaj7)
- Enables smooth voice-leading and creates expectations for listeners
ii = minor 7, V = dominant 7, I = major 7.
Major ii-V-I example: In C major, the progression is Dm7–G7–Cmaj7.
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Structure of the ii-V-I Progression
At its core, the ii-V-I progression moves through three related chords that ensure smooth transitions and strong musical direction:
- Chord Types:
- ii: Minor 7 (m7)
- V: Dominant 7 (7)
- I: Major 7 (M7)
- Movement: Each chord shares some notes with the next, easing transitions (voice-leading).
- Purpose:
- ii starts a gentle buildup.
- V creates tension.
- I resolves, delivering a satisfying “home” feeling.
Voice-Leading in ii-V-I
Voice-leading is a key aspect that makes the ii-V-I progression sound so smooth and natural. Each chord shares common tones with the next, and interestingly, the notes that change between chords move by only a half or whole step. This stepwise movement (instead of large jumps) facilitates seamless transitions and is a big part of why the progression feels so fluid and connected.
For example, in a C major ii-V-I:
- Ii chord (Dm7): D, F, A, C
- V chord (G7): G, B, D, F
- I chord (Cmaj7): C, E, G, B
Between Dm7 (ii) and G7 (V), the notes D and F are common; A moves up a half step to B; C moves down a half step to B. Between G7 (V) and Cmaj7 (I), the notes G and B are common; D moves down a half step to C; F resolves down a half step to E.
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ii is minor 7, V is dominant 7, and I is major 7.
ii starts gently, V builds tension, I resolves.
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Variations and Extensions
Jazz musicians often embellish the basic ii-V-I to add interest:
- Minor key ii-V-i: Chords become iim7(♭5)–V7(♭9)–im7 (e.g., Dm7♭5–G7♭9–Cm7 in C minor).
- Dominant extensions: Add 9ths, 11ths, 13ths to any chord for richer sound.
- Turnarounds: ii-V repeated rapidly at the end of sections to “turn around” to the start.
In minor, it's iim7b5 – V7b9 – im7.
Extensions, minor key forms, and turnarounds are common variations.
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Role in Jazz Standards
The ii-V-I progression is everywhere in jazz:
- Forms the harmonic backbone of hundreds of tunes.
- Offers a common language for improvisation.
- Can be found in melodies, reharmonizations, and even altered to support modal changes.
Because it's widely used, supports improvisation, and creates a shared language.
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Conclusion
The ii-V-I progression is the cornerstone of jazz harmony, offering smooth transitions and a powerful sense of resolution. Its variations and extensions ensure it remains fresh and versatile in countless jazz contexts.
- ii-V-I is the essential jazz progression, embodying preparation, tension, and release.
- Mastering ii-V-I opens doors to understanding, playing, and improvising most jazz standards.
- Its adaptable nature spans major, minor, and complex extended forms, making it indispensable for jazz musicians.