Chord Distribution Analysis

Chord SymbolCountFrequency
Db1017.9%
Ab6610.7%
Bbm758.9%
Eb758.9%
Ab/C47.1%
D0747.1%
Ab23.6%
Ab7/C23.6%

Key Patterns Detected

PatternFunctionFrequency
Bbm7 -> Eb7Setup (Major Key)5
Dm7 -> G7Setup (Major Key)2

Harmonic Highlights

  • Frequent use of V7/IV (Ab7) to target the subdominant (Db), creating a blues-inflected swing feel typical of the Ellington-Strayhorn era.
  • Chromatic passing motion via the D°7 (#IV°7) between the IV and the tonic over its fifth (Ab/Eb), facilitating smooth linear bass movement.
  • Strong reliance on ii-V-I cadences (Bbm7-Eb7-Ab6) to reinforce the Ab major tonal center amidst stepwise diatonic motion.
  • Sophisticated use of inversions, such as Ab7/C and Ab/C, to create a walking bass line within the piano/orchestral voicing.

Improvisation Focus The Ab Major Bebop scale, with specific attention to the #4 (D natural) to bridge the gap between the IV chord and the tonic.

Difficulty Rating 2/5. The predictable diatonic structure and moderate swing tempo make it an accessible study in basic chromatic voice leading and standard jazz turnarounds.