Chord Distribution Analysis

Chord SymbolCountFrequency
Fmaj7811.6%
Gm7811.6%
G7#1168.7%
C757.2%
G757.2%
D7b945.8%
Am7b534.3%
Amaj734.3%

Key Patterns Detected

PatternFunctionFrequency
Gm7 -> C7Setup (Major Key)4
Am7b5 -> D7b9Setup (Minor Key)3
D7b9 -> Gm7Resolution (Minor)3
Bm7 -> E7Setup (Major Key)3
E7 -> Amaj7Resolution (Major)2
Dm7 -> G7Setup (Major Key)2
E7#9 -> Amaj7Resolution (Major)1
C7b9 -> Fmaj7Resolution (Major)1

Harmonic Highlights

  • The move from Fmaj7 to G7#11 (II7) utilizes the Lydian Dominant sound, establishing the characteristic “slightly out of tune” Bossa Nova aesthetic.
  • Use of secondary dominants (A7b9, D7b9) creates frequent temporary resolutions to Gm7 and Dm, weaving between F Major and its relative minor.
  • The chromatic shift to Gbmaj7 (bIImaj7) functions as a sophisticated tritone-adjacent neighbor group, delaying the return to the tonic Fmaj7.
  • Extended ii-V sequences and altered dominants (b9, #11) require precise navigation of voice-leading through rapidly shifting tonal centers.

Improvisation Focus The Lydian Dominant scale (specifically over the II7 chord) is essential for capturing the melody’s unique character.

Difficulty Rating 4/5: The long form, frequent modulations, and non-functional dominant substitutions require an advanced understanding of guide tones and modal switching.


📚 Standard Available in:

The Real Book - Volume I
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