I-vi-ii-V (Rhythm Changes)
Jazz has a cycle that never stops. Gershwin wrote it in 1930 and it's still used today
I-vi-ii-V is 'Rhythm Changes' — the cycle of fourths that defines jazz since Bebop. I Got Rhythm, Oleo, Blue Moon. Learn this cycle and improvise over any standard.
Imaj7vi7ii7V7
Famous songs
I Got Rhythm (Gershwin) · Oleo (Rollins) · Blue Moon · Rhythm changes in general
Did you know?
George Gershwin wrote "I Got Rhythm" (1930) over these changes. Since then, jazz musicians call any tune based on I-vi-ii-V "Rhythm Changes."