Chord Distribution Analysis

Chord SymbolCountFrequency
Dm7821.6%
G7718.9%
Cmaj738.1%
Eb738.1%
Em738.1%
A738.1%
C725.4%
C625.4%

Key Patterns Detected

PatternFunctionFrequency
Dm7 -> G7Setup (Major Key)7
Em7 -> A7Setup (Major Key)3
A7 -> Dm7Resolution (Minor)3
G7 -> Cmaj7Resolution (Major)2
C7 -> Fmaj7Resolution (Major)1
Fmaj7 -> Bb7Setup (Major Key)1
G7 -> Dm7Resolution (Minor)1
Bm7b5 -> E7b9Setup (Minor Key)1
E7b9 -> Am7Resolution (Minor)1
Am7 -> D7Setup (Major Key)1

Harmonic Highlights

  • The A section utilizes a chromatic variation of the I-VI-II-V turnaround, substituting the VI7 with a bIII7 (Eb7) to create a smooth chromatic descent into the II (Dm7).
  • Functional secondary dominants, specifically C7 (V7/IV) and A7 (V7/II), are strategically placed to tonicize the subdominant and supertonic areas respectively.
  • A “backdoor” dominant progression (IVmaj7 to bVII7) occurs via the Fmaj7 to Bb7 movement, providing a brief departure from the C major diatonic center.
  • The structure relies on descending II-V sequences (Em7-A7 to Dm7-G7) that utilize circle-of-fifths motion to navigate back to the tonic.

Improvisation Focus Guide-tone navigation through II-V-I sequences to emphasize the resolution of the 3rds and 7ths.

Difficulty Rating 2/5 — The progression relies on standard jazz cliches and predictable functional harmony, making it accessible for those comfortable with secondary dominants.