Chord Distribution Analysis

Chord SymbolCountFrequency
Fm7815.7%
Ebmaj7713.7%
Bb7611.8%
Gm7b559.8%
C7b959.8%
E0723.9%
F#0723.9%
Am7b523.9%

Key Patterns Detected

PatternFunctionFrequency
Gm7b5 -> C7b9Setup (Minor Key)5
C7b9 -> Fm7Resolution (Minor)5
Fm7 -> Bb7Setup (Major Key)5
Am7b5 -> D7b9Setup (Minor Key)2
Bb7 -> Ebmaj7Resolution (Major)2
Dm7b5 -> G7b9Setup (Minor Key)1
G7b9 -> Cm7Resolution (Minor)1
Cm7 -> F7Setup (Major Key)1
F#m7 -> B7Setup (Major Key)1
Bb7 -> Fm7Resolution (Minor)1
Ebmaj7 -> Ab7Setup (Major Key)1

Harmonic Highlights

  • Chromatic passing diminished chords (E°7 and F#°7) create smooth ascending voice leading between diatonic scale degrees I, ii, and iii.
  • Secondary minor ii-V sequences (Gm7b5–C7b9 and Am7b5–D7b9) provide temporary tonicization of the ii (Fm7) and iii (Gm7) chords, adding sophisticated minor-key coloration.
  • The inclusion of a bVII7 (Db7) “backdoor” dominant offers a characteristic non-functional chromatic resolution back to the Ebmaj7 tonic.
  • High harmonic density is maintained through rapid cycle-of-fourths movements and frequent secondary dominant chains.

Improvisation Focus Navigating Secondary ii-V Progressions by utilizing the b9 and b13 tensions (Harmonic Minor of the resolution) to highlight the shifting tonal centers.

Difficulty Rating 3/5 - The rapid harmonic rhythm and frequent use of secondary dominants require an intermediate understanding of functional voice leading beyond simple diatonicism.


📚 Standard Available in:

The Real Book - Volume II
🛒 Buy on Amazon
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Check the Hal Leonard Jazz Song Finder to make sure that the standard is indeed in the book before buying it.