Minor ii–V–i in D minor

The minor ii–V–i is distinct from its major counterpart. Em7b5 (half-diminished) serves as the ii chord, A7 (with a raised 7th from harmonic minor) is the V, and Dm7 is the tonic. The half-diminished ii chord and the altered A7 give this progression its dark, sophisticated sound. Essential for jazz standards in minor keys.