C# Descending Minor Cliché

vi – viM7 – vi7 – II progression in C# major

C♯ major
Chords
Triads7th Chords
Instrument
GuitarUkuleleBass
Harmony
Originalii–V–ISec. Dom.
viA#m
viM7A#m
vi7A#m
IID#

Triad Diagrams — C# Descending Minor Cliché (Guitar)

C# Descending Minor Clichévi – viM7 – vi7 – II

The C# Descending Minor Cliché (A#m – A#m – A#m – D#) generates motion by moving chromatically through the vi chord — from minor to minor-major 7th to minor 7th — before resolving to a major II chord. This sophisticated voice-leading movement creates a romantic, melancholic atmosphere found in jazz standards and classic pop. With seventh chord voicings (A#m7 – A#mM7 – A#m7 – D#7), the chromatic descent is fully realized.

Classical / PopRomance & Intrigue4/4 · 4 bars

Chords (triads): A#m, D#.

Chords (7th): A#m7, A#mM7, D#7.

Famous songs using this progression

  • My Funny Valentine – Rodgers & Hart
  • Michelle – The Beatles
  • Time In A Bottle – Jim Croce
  • Stairway To Heaven – Led Zeppelin