I–vi–ii–V–I in G Major
Pattern: I – vi – ii – V – I
Chords: G – Em – Am – D – G
Chord Breakdown
| Numeral | Chord | Type | Function |
|---|---|---|---|
| I | G (details) | major | Tonic |
| vi | Em (details) | minor | Submediant |
| ii | Am (details) | minor | Supertonic |
| V | D (details) | major | Dominant |
| I | G (details) | major | Tonic |
Harmonic Analysis
This progression moves through G (Tonic) → Em (Submediant) → Am (Supertonic) → D (Dominant) → G (Tonic).
The complete turnaround cycle that resolves back to the tonic, providing full harmonic closure. This self-contained progression is the basis for countless jazz standards and rhythm changes.
Song Examples
- I Got Rhythm — George Gershwin
- Anthropology — Charlie Parker