iiVI

iiVI refers to a two-chord progression in tonal harmony that moves from the supertonic (ii) to the submediant (VI). In major-key contexts, the diatonic ii chord is typically minor, while the VI chord is often a borrowed major chord (frequently notated as ii–bVI or ii–bVI–I), producing a colorful pre-dominant movement that can lead toward I or V. The progression is especially common in jazz and pop.

A typical realization in a major key is ii–bVI–I. For example in C major, Dm7–Bbmaj7–Cmaj7 uses the ii7 chord moving to a borrowed major VI (Bbmaj7) before resolving to the I (Cmaj7). A related variant uses a dominant-type bVI7, such as Dm7–Bb7–C, which strengthens the pull toward the tonic through a secondary-dominant function.

In minor keys, iiø–VI–i is a common variant. For instance in A minor, Bm7b5–Fmaj7–Am creates a similar color and smooth voice-leading, with the half-diminished ii chord stepping to a major VI and then to the tonic i.

Function and feel: ii–VI provides a distinct color or coloristic bridge between a pre-dominant area and the tonic, often serving as a substitute or intermediary for ii–V–I progressions. Variants abound, including different chord qualities (maj7, dom7, or m7) and modal mixture, depending on the desired harmonic flavor.