Chord Distribution Analysis

Chord SymbolCountFrequency
Ebmaj7825.8%
Fm7516.1%
Bb7516.1%
Gm739.7%
C739.7%
Abmaj726.5%
Ab626.5%
Abm626.5%

Key Patterns Detected

PatternFunctionFrequency
Fm7 -> Bb7Setup (Major Key)5
Gm7 -> C7Setup (Major Key)3
C7 -> Fm7Resolution (Minor)3
Bb7 -> Fm7Resolution (Minor)2
Bb7 -> Ebmaj7Resolution (Major)2

Harmonic Highlights

  • Utilizes a standard diatonic I-IV movement (Ebmaj7 to Abmaj7), establishing a stable tonal center before introducing secondary functional harmony.
  • Employs a classic minor plagal cadence (Ab6 to Abm6 to Ebmaj7), creating a chromatic voice-leading line from the natural 6th (F) to the minor 6th (Fb/E) to the perfect 5th (Bb).
  • Integrates secondary dominants, specifically the V7/ii (C7) leading into the ii-V turnaround (Fm7โ€“Bb7), to drive the harmonic motion toward the tonic.
  • Features a repetitive cyclical structure common in swing-era standards, emphasizing the ii-V-I cell as the primary engine for resolution.

Improvisation Focus The Eb Major Bebop scale is the most effective tool for navigating the changes, as it provides the necessary passing tones to align chord tones with downbeats.

Difficulty Rating 1/5; the progression is largely diatonic with predictable resolutions and standard jazz cadences, making it an ideal entry point for beginners.


๐Ÿ“š Standard Available in:

The Real Book - Volume V
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