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INTERMEDIO_BAJO

I-IV-iii-vi (Smooth Jazz)

Just the Two of Us, Sunday Morning, Isn't She Lovely. Why do they sound so smooth?

Imaj7-IVmaj7-iii7-vi7 is the heart of Smooth Jazz and Soul. A smooth descent through diatonic degrees that creates a natural, relaxing fall. Sophisticated without being complex.

Imaj7IVmaj7iii7vi7
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Complete guide

Level: Intermediate Styles: Jazz

🎵 The "Downhill" Feel

Unlike the classic jazz fourth jumps, this progression moves mostly by stepwise motion (small steps), which gives it that smooth, melodic quality.

  1. I → IV: Classic jump.
  2. IV → iii: Down a whole step (very melodic).
  3. iii → vi: Fourth jump (classic turn).

🎹 In C Major

  • Cmaj7
  • Fmaj7
  • Em7
  • Am7

💡 Pro Tip: Extensions

This progression shines with 9ths.

  • Try Fmaj9 instead of Fmaj7.
  • Try Em9 and Am9. The sound becomes instantly "Neo-Soul".