ChordFlow

Chord Progression Builder

I–vi–ii–V: The Jazz Turnaround

I–vi–ii–V is a classic turnaround because it keeps you moving while still feeling inevitable. In C, Cmaj7 states home, Am7 is a gentle “tonic substitute,” Dm7 sets up the dominant, and G7 pulls you right back to the top. The magic is that each chord shares tones with the next, so even simple voicings glide. You’ll hear this at the end of A sections in standards, in intros, and as a looping vamp when a band wants to keep the energy up. For comping, aim for guide tones (3rds and 7ths) and let the bass define the roots. For a hipper sound, turn the vi into a secondary dominant (A7) or use a tritone sub for G7; the function stays the same but the color changes dramatically.

Key
C major
Tempo
110 BPM
Groove
swing
Open in BuilderMore swing

Play it on guitar

Start slow, keep your right hand steady, and aim for clean changes on the downbeats. Once it’s comfortable, add a groove and increase tempo.

Capo suggestion: try capo 0 and play in C shapes for open chords.

Chords: Cmaj7 – Am7 – Dm7 – G7

Roman numerals & theory

Roman numerals describe the chord’s function relative to the key. This helps you transpose the “shape” to any key without memorizing new chord names.

In C major: Imaj7–VImaj7–IImaj7–V7

Variations (keep the progression, change the feel)

  • • Add 7ths for color (try maj7 on I, m7 on vi, and V7 before resolving).
  • • Use a sus4 resolve on the V chord (e.g. Gsus4 → G) to create tension and release.
  • • Change the rhythm instead of the chords: try anticipations (hit the next chord on the “and” of 4).
  • • Arpeggiate the top notes to create a hook while the harmony stays the same.
  • • Borrow a darker chord for contrast (in a major key, try iv for one bar before returning).

Related

More swingMore in C majorLearn guitar progressions

FAQ

What chords are in I–vi–ii–V: The Jazz Turnaround?
In C major, a common spelling is: Cmaj7 – Am7 – Dm7 – G7. Use the “Open in Builder” button to hear it with a groove and adjust tempo.
What key is this progression in?
This page’s example is in C major. You can transpose the idea to other keys (often with a capo) while keeping the same progression shape.
How do I play this progression on guitar?
Start with clean chord changes at a slow BPM. For open chords, try capo 0 and play in C shapes, then increase tempo once the groove feels steady.
How can I make it sound more interesting?
Keep the progression but add movement: sus4 resolves, 7ths, or a stronger V7 before returning to I. Rhythm and dynamics usually create the biggest “upgrade” on guitar.
Audio is enabled after your first click or key press.
Your Progression

Select a chord below to start building your progression

Drums: 75%
Humanize
Sustain: 95%
BPM: 120
Bar — / —
Key: C major
Next: —