Chord Distribution Analysis

Chord SymbolCountFrequency
F61425.0%
C71119.6%
Gm7814.3%
D7b1335.4%
Bb723.6%
B723.6%
D7b923.6%
C7sus23.6%

Key Patterns Detected

PatternFunctionFrequency
Gm7 -> C7Setup (Major Key)6
D7b13 -> Gm7Resolution (Minor)2
D7b9 -> Gm7Resolution (Minor)2
Gm7 -> C7susSetup (Major Key)2
Am7b5 -> D7b9Setup (Minor Key)1
C7 -> Fmaj7Resolution (Major)1
Fmaj7 -> C7Setup (Major Key)1
Am7 -> D7Setup (Major Key)1
D7 -> Gm7Resolution (Minor)1

Harmonic Highlights

  • Chromatic Dominant Approach: The progression Bb7 – B7 – C7 utilizes a blues-inflected side-slipping motion to reinforce the arrival at the dominant.
  • Secondary Dominant Extensions: The use of A7b13 and D7b13 creates a sophisticated cycle of fifths that introduces darker, non-diatonic tensions (b13) within the F major framework.
  • Minor ii-V Interpolation: The sequence Am7b5 – D7b9 acting as a bridge to Gm7 adds a poignant, minor-key gravity typical of Arlen’s “torch song” harmonic language.

Improvisation Focus Chord Tone Proximity: Navigating the chromatic shifts and altered dominants requires a focus on smooth voice leading and the F Blues scale to maintain the song’s soulful character.

Difficulty Rating 3/5: The moderate tempo allows time for navigation, but the frequent altered dominants and chromatic turnarounds require precise harmonic awareness.