Chord Distribution Analysis
| Chord Symbol | Count | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| A7 | 6 | 16.2% |
| Em7 | 5 | 13.5% |
| Am7 | 4 | 10.8% |
| D7 | 4 | 10.8% |
| Gmaj7 | 3 | 8.1% |
| E7 | 3 | 8.1% |
| G0 | 2 | 5.4% |
| B7b13 | 2 | 5.4% |
Key Patterns Detected
| Pattern | Function | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Em7 -> A7 | Setup (Major Key) | 4 |
| B7b13 -> Em7 | Resolution (Minor) | 2 |
| A7 -> Em7 | Resolution (Minor) | 2 |
| Am7 -> D7 | Setup (Major Key) | 2 |
| Cmaj7 -> F7 | Setup (Major Key) | 1 |
| Bm7 -> E7 | Setup (Major Key) | 1 |
| E7 -> Am7 | Resolution (Minor) | 1 |
🎼 Sheet Music
Find Lead Sheet on Sheet Music Direct (PDF)Harmonic Highlights
- Secondary dominant motion via B7b13 to Em7 reinforces the pull toward the relative minor, creating Ellington’s signature melancholic “blues-ballad” texture.
- The progression utilizes a “back-door” resolution (F7 to Gmaj7), employing a bVII7 to I movement that provides a sophisticated alternative to standard V-I cadences.
- Circle of fifths extensions (E7–A7–D7) create a chromatic bridge that smoothly re-establishes the tonic through sequential dominant motion.
Improvisation Focus Chord Tone Soloing: Emphasizing the 3rds and 7ths is crucial to navigate the frequent secondary dominants and shifting tonal centers.
Difficulty Rating 3/5: While the ballad tempo is forgiving, the performer must master frequent non-diatonic resolutions and secondary dominant chains to sound authentic.