R&B 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.

Imaj7 · v7 · IVmaj7 · VImaj7

The lush, romantic progression that defines modern neo-soul. Dmaj7-Am7-Gmaj7-Bbmaj7 creates that warm, intimate atmosphere. Daniel Caesar's signature sound.

I · vi · IV · V

The classic doo-wop progression from the 1940s-60s. Creates an instantly nostalgic, romantic feel. Also called the 'Heart and Soul' or 'Stand By Me' changes.

I · vi · ii · V

The sophisticated Motown progression that drove countless hits. The ii-V turnaround adds jazz sophistication to pop soul.

i7 · IV7

The dark, funky minor groove of Superstition. Built on Eb Dorian with Ebm7 and Ab7 creating that iconic clavinet riff. The minor i7 with major IV7 is the essence of funk.

vi7 · iii7 · IV7 · V

The smooth 90s R&B groove. Fm7-Cm7-Db7-Eb in Ab creates that laid-back, sensual atmosphere. The ii7-v7-IV7-V creates smooth voice leading that became the blueprint for 90s slow jams.

IVmaj7 · III7 · vi7 · v7 · I7

Known in Japan as 丸サ進行, after Sheena Ringo's 'Marunouchi Sadistic', and in the West as the 'Just the Two of Us' changes. The move from IVmaj7 to III7 is the hook: a secondary dominant that pulls hard into the vi chord and gives city pop, neo-soul and modern J-pop their smooth, slightly aching quality.

ii7 · V7

Disco often refuses to resolve at all. Two seventh chords trade back and forth — a ii-V that never reaches the I — so the groove can run indefinitely without the harmony ever telling you the song is over. Chic's 'Good Times' is the canonical example, and one of the most sampled bars in recorded music.