The ii-V-I Progression
The heartbeat of jazz
Prove it — just do the practice exercise.
Dm7 Shell Voicing
D (R)F (♭3)C (♭7)
The ii-V-I is the most important harmonic progression:
• In C: Dm7 → G7 → CMaj7
• ii = Subdominant (preparation)
• V = Dominant (tension)
• I = Tonic (resolution)
Every jazz standard contains ii-V-I progressions — often in different keys.
Practice shell voicings for ii-V-I: The notes move minimally between chords.
• In C: Dm7 → G7 → CMaj7
• ii = Subdominant (preparation)
• V = Dominant (tension)
• I = Tonic (resolution)
Every jazz standard contains ii-V-I progressions — often in different keys.
Practice shell voicings for ii-V-I: The notes move minimally between chords.