Chord Distribution Analysis

Chord SymbolCountFrequency
G7726.9%
C6623.1%
D7415.4%
Dm7311.5%
Fmaj713.8%
Bb713.8%
Am713.8%
Fm613.8%

Key Patterns Detected

PatternFunctionFrequency
Dm7 -> G7Setup (Major Key)2
Fmaj7 -> Bb7Setup (Major Key)1

Harmonic Highlights

  • Secondary Dominant Tension: The progression utilizes a II7 (D7) chord, acting as a V/V to create a strong pull toward the dominant G7.
  • Backdoor Resolution: The movement from Fmaj7 to Bb7 (IV to bVII7) functions as a “backdoor” cadence, a quintessential jazz device resolving back to the tonic C6.
  • Chromatic Voice Leading: The sequence of Em7 - Eb°7 - Dm7 provides a smooth descending bridge from the iii chord to the ii chord using a passing diminished chord.

Improvisation Focus Chord tone soloing with a focus on Lydian Dominant over the Bb7 chord to highlight the #11.

Difficulty Rating 2/5 - The harmony is functional and remains centered in C major, offering a predictable structure for beginners to practice secondary dominants and basic substitutions.


📚 Standard Available in:

The Real Book - Volume III
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