He's A Tramp (A minor) - Jazz Analysis & Chords

Harmonic Highlights

• The progression begins with a repetitive ii-V7 vamp (Am7-D7), establishing a Dorian-influenced swing feel that delays resolution to the tonic G.
• A chromatic descending sequence (Gmaj7-Gb7-F7-E7) utilizes tritone substitutions and parallel motion to bridge the tonic to the secondary dominant A7.
• The structure heavily relies on a cycle of fifths chain (A7-D7-G6), a classic ragtime-era device that provides strong forward momentum.
• The move to Cmaj7 via G7 highlights a standard tonic-to-subdominant transition, expanding the harmonic palette beyond the primary G major/A minor axis.

Improvisation Focus The G Major Blues scale (G-A-Bb-B-D-E), as it navigates the transition between the sophisticated ii-V movements and the underlying bluesy “cool jazz” aesthetic.

Difficulty Rating 2/5: The steady harmonic rhythm and predictable ii-V-I resolutions make it accessible for intermediate players, though the chromatic bridge requires precise voice leading.