Chord Distribution Analysis

Chord SymbolCountFrequency
Gm71322.4%
Fmaj7813.8%
C7813.8%
Am7712.1%
Faug46.9%
F635.2%
D735.2%
Ab723.4%

Key Patterns Detected

PatternFunctionFrequency
Gm7 -> C7Setup (Major Key)8
C7 -> Fmaj7Resolution (Major)5
Fmaj7 -> Bb7Setup (Major Key)2
Am7 -> D7Setup (Major Key)2
D7 -> Gm7Resolution (Minor)2
Bb7 -> Fmaj7/AResolution (Major)1
Bm7b5 -> E7Setup (Minor Key)1
E7 -> Am7Resolution (Minor)1
Am7b5 -> D7b9Setup (Minor Key)1
D7b9 -> Gm7Resolution (Minor)1

Harmonic Highlights:

  • The iconic opening employs a striking chromatic alteration of the tonic (F, Faug, F6, Faug, Fmaj7), creating a lush, yearning quality.
  • The Ab7 chord (bII7) functions as a chromatic dominant, exhibiting an unusual resolution to Am7, adding a sophisticated harmonic twist.
  • Utilizes the bVII7 chord (Bb7) as a “backdoor dominant,” effectively leading to the tonic Fmaj7, a common and effective jazz idiom.
  • Employs secondary dominants and deceptive resolutions, such as D7 moving directly to Fmaj7, which enhances harmonic surprise and flow.

Improvisation Focus: Targeting chord tones and guide tones, especially when navigating the song’s numerous chromatic alterations and deceptive cadences.

Difficulty Rating: 4 (Advanced Intermediate). The frequent use of chromatic alterations, deceptive resolutions, and a complex harmonic rhythm requires careful navigation beyond basic diatonic understanding.