Chord Distribution Analysis

Chord SymbolCountFrequency
D7817.4%
Am7715.2%
Gmaj748.7%
Em748.7%
D7sus36.5%
Dm724.3%
G724.3%
Cmaj724.3%

Key Patterns Detected

PatternFunctionFrequency
Am7 -> D7Setup (Major Key)5
D7 -> Gmaj7Resolution (Major)3
Dm7 -> G7Setup (Major Key)2
G7 -> Cmaj7Resolution (Major)2
C#m7b5 -> F#7Setup (Minor Key)2
F#7 -> Bm7Resolution (Minor)2
Bm7 -> E7b9Setup (Major Key)2
E7b9 -> Am7Resolution (Minor)2
Am7 -> D7susSetup (Major Key)2
Gmaj7/D -> D7Setup (Major Key)1
E7 -> Am7Resolution (Minor)1

Harmonic Highlights

  • Utilizes a foundational I-vi-ii-V (Gmaj7-Em7-Am7-D7) turnaround in the A section, providing a stable diatonic framework.
  • Employs a tonicization of the IV chord (Cmaj7) via a secondary ii-V (Dm7-G7) followed by a modal interchange Cm6 (iv), a hallmark of Gershwin’s harmonic palette.
  • Incorporates a sequence of secondary dominants (C#m7b5-F#7 to Bm7-E7b9) to navigate from the subdominant region back to the primary ii-V-I cadence.

Improvisation Focus G Major Pentatonic and G Major Blues scales, complemented by chord-tone targeting and arpeggios through the bridge’s chromatic secondary dominant movements.

Difficulty Rating 2/5: The tune follows predictable diatonic patterns and standard jazz clichés, making it highly accessible for developing improvisers.


📚 Standard Available in:

The Real Book - Volume VI
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