I'll See You In My Dreams (Bb major) - Jazz Analysis & Chords

Chord Distribution Analysis

No obvious ii-V patterns detected.

Harmonic Highlights

• Modal Interchange: The movement from Bb6 to Bbm6 (IV to iv) introduces the b6 scale degree (Db), creating the song’s signature “sentimental” atmosphere through minor subdominant functionality.
• Secondary Dominants: The progression utilizes VI7 and II7 chords (D7 and G7) to create strong directional tension, driving the harmony through the circle of fifths toward the dominant.
• Chromatic Voice Leading: The E7 chord acts as a tritone substitute (subV/V) or a chromatic approach chord, providing a smooth melodic bridge into the tonic F6.

Improvisation Focus The Major-to-Minor subdominant shift; specifically targeting the transition from the natural 6th (D) to the minor 6th (Db) over the Bbm6 chord.

Difficulty Rating 2/5. The predictable IV-iv-I structure and clear secondary dominants make it an ideal entry-point for students learning to navigate modal interchange.