ii-V-I Chord Progression in E major
In E major the ii-V-I progression is F#m7 – B7 – Emaj7.
The cornerstone of jazz harmony: a smooth chain of chords each resolving to the next. Jazz standards such as Autumn Leaves are full of ii-V-I movements.
The chords
| Numeral | Chord | Easiest shape |
|---|---|---|
| ii | F#m7 | 242220 |
| V | B7 | x2120x |
| I | Emaj7 | 021100 |
How to practise
Play it slowly and listen to how each chord resolves into the next. Try finding the shortest finger movement between the three shapes.
- Play one chord per bar at 60 BPM with a simple down-strum on each beat.
- Raise the tempo by 5 BPM once you can play eight rounds without a mistake.
- Change the strumming pattern: down, down-up, up-down-up.
Key facts about E major
E major contains the notes E, F#, G#, A, B, C#, D#. See the full E Major scale with fretboard diagrams, and use it to solo over the progression.
ii-V-I in other keys
Other progressions in E major
FAQ
What are the chords of ii-V-I in E major?
F#m7 – B7 – Emaj7.
What notes are in E major?
E major contains E, F#, G#, A, B, C#, D#.
Which scale can I solo with over ii-V-I in E major?
The E major scale fits, and the major pentatonic scale from E is the easiest choice.
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