Chord Distribution Analysis

Chord SymbolCountFrequency
Gm7912.5%
C7912.5%
Cm768.3%
G768.3%
Ab756.9%
F7#545.6%
Fm745.6%
Bb745.6%

Key Patterns Detected

PatternFunctionFrequency
Gm7 -> C7Setup (Major Key)9
C7 -> Gm7Resolution (Minor)4
Fm7 -> Bb7Setup (Major Key)4
Dm7 -> G7Setup (Major Key)3
Cm7 -> F7#5Setup (Major Key)2
Bb7 -> Fm7Resolution (Minor)2
Ebm7 -> Ab7Setup (Major Key)2
G7 -> Dm7Resolution (Minor)2
Cm7 -> F7Setup (Major Key)2
Ab7 -> Ebm6Resolution (Minor)2
F7 -> Cm7Resolution (Minor)1
Ebm6 -> Ab7Setup (Major Key)1
Cm7 -> F7b9Setup (Major Key)1

Harmonic Highlights

  • The progression utilizes extended ii-V chains, notably Gm7-C7 (ii-V of V) and Fm7-Bb7 (ii-V of IV), to create temporary tonicizations before returning to the Bb tonic.
  • The inclusion of Dm7b5-G7 functions as a minor ii-V leading to Cm7, introducing dark, blues-inflected tension typical of Arlen’s harmonic language.
  • A “backdoor” ii-V sequence (Ebm7-Ab7) facilitates a chromatic return to the tonic Bb, a sophisticated alternative to the standard V7-I cadence.
  • Dominant chords frequently feature altered extensions, such as F7#5, to maximize melodic voice-leading tension toward the target resolutions.

Improvisation Focus Chord-tone soloing emphasizing the guide tones (3rds and 7ths) of the shifting secondary dominants.

Difficulty Rating 3/5; the tune follows a standard form but requires navigating frequent secondary dominants and chromatic backdoor resolutions.


📚 Standard Available in:

The Real Book - Volume III
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