Chord Distribution Analysis

Chord SymbolCountFrequency
Am71025.0%
D7717.5%
Gmaj7410.0%
Bm737.5%
E9#537.5%
C725.0%
Em725.0%
A725.0%

Key Patterns Detected

PatternFunctionFrequency
Am7 -> D7Setup (Major Key)5
D7 -> Gmaj7Resolution (Major)3
D7 -> Am7Resolution (Minor)2
Gmaj7 -> C7Setup (Major Key)2
Em7 -> A7Setup (Major Key)2
B7 -> Em7Resolution (Minor)1
A7 -> Em7Resolution (Minor)1
Bm7b5 -> E7b9Setup (Minor Key)1
E7b9 -> Am7Resolution (Minor)1
Cm7 -> F7Setup (Major Key)1
E7 -> Am7Resolution (Minor)1

Harmonic Highlights

  • The progression utilizes persistent ii-V chains (Am7-D7) that alternate between G Major and its relative minor (E minor/A minor) via minor ii-V-i turnarounds (Bm7-E9#5).
  • The inclusion of the C7 chord functions as a “backdoor” dominant or subdominant minor substitute, adding chromatic tension before returning to the diatonic framework.
  • Frequent use of altered dominants (E9#5) and secondary dominants (A7) creates smooth chromatic voice-leading through the cycle of fourths.

Improvisation Focus Guide-tone targeting, specifically focusing on the 3rds and 7ths to navigate the rapid major and minor ii-V transitions.

Difficulty Rating 3 (Intermediate): Demands proficiency with ii-V-I patterns in both major and minor contexts and the ability to anticipate quick harmonic shifts across key centers.


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The Real Book - Volume II
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