Neo Soul Chord Progressions — The Complete Guide

Lush harmonies and extended chords for that neo soul vibe

What Defines Neo Soul Harmony?

Neo soul harmony is characterized by its use of extended chords (9ths, 11ths, 13ths),altered tensions, and smooth voice leading. It blends the harmonic complexity of jazz with the emotional depth of R&B and gospel.

The "vibe" of neo soul often comes from the use of clusters (notes played close together) and chromaticism (moving by half-steps). It's all about creating a lush, atmospheric sound that feels both modern and timeless.

6 Essential Neo Soul Progressions

Minor Soul

i–iv–VII–IIIin C Minor

Cm9Fm9Bb13Ebmaj9

A classic neo soul progression that feels both sophisticated and soulful.

Major Soul

Imaj7–iii7–vi9–IVmaj7in C Major

Cmaj7Em7Am9Fmaj7

A bright, lush progression with extended harmonies.

Jazz Soul

ii9–V13–Imaj9in C Major

Dm9G13Cmaj9

A jazz-influenced progression that defines the neo soul sound.

Minor Cliché

i(maj7)–i7–i6–iin A Minor

Am(maj7)Am7Am6Am

A chromatic descending line that creates a sense of mood and mystery.

Smooth Resolution

IVmaj7–iii7–IIm9–Iin C Major

Fmaj7Em7Dm9C

A smooth, descending progression that resolves beautifully to the tonic.

Modern Soul

bVII–IV–Iin C Major

Bbmaj7Fmaj7Cmaj7

A modern, soulful take on a classic rock progression.

Adding Extensions and Alterations

To get that authentic neo soul sound, try adding these extensions to your basic chords:

Major 9th: Add the 2nd (or 9th) to a Major 7th chord. (e.g., C-E-G-B-D)
Minor 11th: Add the 4th (or 11th) to a Minor 7th chord. (e.g., C-Eb-G-Bb-F)
Dominant 13th: Add the 6th (or 13th) to a Dominant 7th chord. (e.g., C-E-G-Bb-A)

Don't be afraid of "crunchy" sounds! Playing notes that are only a half-step or whole-step apart can create the beautiful tension that defines the genre.

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