Jazz Chords & Chord Progressions

vi7 · ii7 · V7 · Imaj7

The quintessential jazz turnaround with rich 7th chords. The vi7-ii7-V7-Imaj7 follows the circle of fifths for smooth voice leading, perfect for chill coffeehouse vibes and neo-soul.

iii7 · vi7 · ii7 · V7

The diatonic circle of fifths progression with 7th chords. Each chord's root is a fifth below the previous, creating smooth harmonic motion that resolves to the I chord.

Imaj7 · vi7 · ii9 · V7

The lush, romantic jazz ballad progression with extended chords. The ii9 adds extra color and sophistication to this timeless sound.

Imaj7 · #Idim7 · ii7 · V7

A classic jazz and swing technique using a diminished 7th chord as a chromatic passing chord between Imaj7 and ii7. Creates smooth voice leading and harmonic tension.

i · i+ · i6 · i+

The iconic chromatic line from spy movie themes. The 5th of the minor chord rises chromatically (B → C → C#) then falls back (C), creating the classic tension and release. This is the signature sound of 007.

i7 · bVII7 · VI7 · V7

A sophisticated minor jazz progression with all dominant 7th chords descending chromatically. Creates a smooth, bebop-influenced sound.

Imaj7 · bII7 · Imaj7

The ultimate jazz substitution - replacing V7 with bII7 (a tritone away). Creates a chromatic bass line and unexpected color that defines modern jazz harmony.

i7 · IIImaj7 · iv7 · V7

The big band jazz sound of Cowboy Bebop. Tank! uses Cm7-Ebmaj7-Fm7-G7 with Latin-infused hard bop energy. The 7th chords give it that authentic big band jazz feel.

ii7 · V7 · Imaj7 · vi7

The jazz turnaround that city pop borrowed wholesale. Dm7-G7-Cmaj7 resolves, then vi7 swings it straight back around, which is how these records stay glossy for four minutes without ever quite sounding like they have landed.