G Backdoor Cadence

iv – ♭VII – I progression in G major

G major
Chords
Triads7th Chords
Instrument
GuitarUkuleleBass
Harmony
Originalii–V–ISec. Dom.
ivCm
♭VIIF
IG

Triad Diagrams — G Backdoor Cadence (Guitar)

G Backdoor Cadenceiv – ♭VII – I

The G Backdoor Cadence (Cm – F – G) resolves to the tonic through the "back door" — a minor iv chord followed by a ♭VII7, bypassing the usual dominant V–I. This unexpected approach produces a smoky, soulful resolution central to jazz and R&B harmony. With seventh chord voicings (Cm7 – F7 – GMaj7), the backdoor quality is even more pronounced.

Jazz / SoulSoulful & Unexpected4/4 · 4 bars

Chords (triads): Cm, F, G.

Chords (7th): Cm7, F7, GMaj7.

Famous songs using this progression

  • In My Life – The Beatles
  • Lady Bird – Tadd Dameron