A Jazz ii–V–I

ii – V – I progression in A major

A major
Chords
Triads7th Chords
Instrument
GuitarUkuleleBass
Harmony
Originalii–V–ISec. Dom.
iiBm
VE
IA

Triad Diagrams — A Jazz ii–V–I (Guitar)

A Jazz ii–V–Iii – V – I

The A ii–V–I progression (Bm – E – A) is the most important cadence in jazz. The subdominant provides motion, the dominant creates tension, and the tonic delivers resolution. With seventh chords (Bm7 – E7 – AMaj7), it is the definitive jazz sound.

Jazz / SoulSophistication4/4 · 4 bars

Chords (triads): Bm, E, A.

Chords (7th): Bm7, E7, AMaj7.

Famous songs using this progression

  • Autumn Leaves – Joseph Kosma
  • Fly Me to the Moon – Bart Howard
  • All The Things You Are – Jerome Kern