Chord Distribution Analysis

Chord SymbolCountFrequency
Cmaj7514.7%
Am7411.8%
Dm738.8%
G738.8%
Bm7b525.9%
E7b925.9%
Gm725.9%
C725.9%

Key Patterns Detected

PatternFunctionFrequency
Dm7 -> G7Setup (Major Key)3
Bm7b5 -> E7b9Setup (Minor Key)2
E7b9 -> Am7Resolution (Minor)2
Gm7 -> C7Setup (Major Key)2
C7 -> Fmaj7Resolution (Major)2
Fmaj7 -> Bb7#11Setup (Major Key)2
G7 -> Cmaj7Resolution (Major)2
Em7 -> A7Setup (Major Key)1
Ebm7 -> Ab7Setup (Major Key)1

Harmonic Highlights

  • Frequent use of secondary ii-V progressions, specifically targeting the relative minor (Am7) via a Bm7b5-E7b9 sequence.
  • Smooth modulation to the IV chord (Fmaj7) facilitated by a Gm7-C7 ii-V chain, a classic bebop-era device.
  • Integration of the “backdoor” dominant Bb7#11 (bVII7), providing a Lydian Dominant color that bridges back to the tonic-functioning Em7.
  • Sequential dominant motion (A7 to D7) creates a strong cycle-of-fifths pull leading into the final Dm7-G7 turnaround.

Improvisation Focus Functional Voice Leading. Navigating the 3rds and 7ths through shifting ii-V-I centers is essential for outlining the sophisticated harmonic movement.

Difficulty Rating 3 (Intermediate): The progression follows a logical standard form but requires precise navigation of minor ii-V-I sequences and chromatic substitutions.


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The Real Book - Volume II
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