D Jazz ii–V–I

ii – V – I progression in D major

D major
Chords
Triads7th Chords
Instrument
GuitarUkuleleBass
Harmony
Originalii–V–ISec. Dom.
iiEm
VA
ID

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

D Jazz ii–V–Iii – V – I

The D ii–V–I progression (Em – A – D) is the most important cadence in jazz. The subdominant provides motion, the dominant creates tension, and the tonic delivers resolution. With seventh chords (Em7 – A7 – DMaj7), it is the definitive jazz sound.

Jazz / SoulSophistication4/4 · 4 bars

Chords (triads): Em, A, D.

Chords (7th): Em7, A7, DMaj7.

Famous songs using this progression

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