ii-V-I Progression

Understanding the ii-V-I Progression

The ii-V-I progression is arguably the most important chord progression in jazz and is fundamental to understanding tonal harmony. This three-chord sequence creates a strong sense of resolution and forward motion that has captivated musicians for generations.

Structure of the ii-V-I

In the key of C major, the ii-V-I progression consists of:

• ii chord (Dm7): D-F-A-C - minor seventh chord
• V chord (G7): G-B-D-F - dominant seventh chord
• I chord (CMaj7): C-E-G-B - major seventh chord

Harmonic Function

Each chord in the progression serves a specific harmonic function:

• ii chord: Subdominant function, creates mild tension
• V chord: Dominant function, creates maximum tension
• I chord: Tonic function, provides resolution and stability

Voice Leading

The ii-V-I progression features excellent voice leading:

• Root movement: Down a fifth (or up a fourth) each time
• Common tones: Smooth connections between chords
• Guide tones: The 3rd and 7th of each chord create smooth motion
• Tension and release: Natural flow from stability to tension to resolution

Jazz Applications

The ii-V-I is ubiquitous in jazz:

• Turnarounds: Used to return to the beginning of forms
• Modulation: Can lead to different key centers
• Substitutions: Various chord substitutions can embellish the basic form
• Extended forms: Can be extended to iii-vi-ii-V-I

Minor Key Version

In minor keys, the progression becomes ii°-V-i:

• ii° chord: Half-diminished chord (e.g., Dm7♭5 in C minor)
• V chord: Often altered dominant (e.g., G7alt)
• i chord: Minor tonic (e.g., CmMaj7 or Cm6)

Common Songs Using ii-V-I

Famous examples include:

• "All The Things You Are"
• "Autumn Leaves"
• "Fly Me to the Moon"
• "Giant Steps" (with substitutions)
• "Satin Doll"

Practice Suggestions

To master the ii-V-I progression:

• Practice in all 12 keys
• Learn the guide tone lines (3rds and 7ths)
• Practice with different voicings
• Study jazz standards that use this progression
• Experiment with chord substitutions

Mastering the ii-V-I progression is essential for any serious student of jazz harmony and provides a foundation for understanding more complex progressions.