Imaj7–IVmaj7 in D Major
Pattern: Imaj7 – IVmaj7
Chords: Dmaj7 – Gmaj7
Chord Breakdown
| Numeral | Chord | Type | Function |
|---|---|---|---|
| Imaj7 | Dmaj7 (details) | major seventh | Tonic |
| IVmaj7 | Gmaj7 (details) | major seventh | Subdominant |
Harmonic Analysis
This progression moves through Dmaj7 (Tonic) → Gmaj7 (Subdominant).
The Imaj7–IVmaj7 progression is a foundational jazz and R&B movement, floating between two lush major seventh chords. Both chords share a dreamy, unresolved quality, and the motion between them creates a gentle harmonic rocking that avoids strong tension. This two-chord vamp is the bedrock of bossa nova, neo-soul, and lo-fi aesthetics.
Song Examples
- The Girl from Ipanema — Jobim
- Don't Know Why — Norah Jones
- Fallin' — Alicia Keys