Chord Distribution Analysis

Chord SymbolCountFrequency
Fm72038.5%
Bb7917.3%
C7#9713.5%
Bbm735.8%
Eb735.8%
C7sus23.8%
C7#523.8%
Ab623.8%

Key Patterns Detected

PatternFunctionFrequency
Fm7 -> Bb7Setup (Major Key)9
C7#9 -> Fm7Resolution (Minor)7
Bb7 -> Fm7Resolution (Minor)6
Fm7 -> C7#9Setup (Major Key)6
Bbm7 -> Eb7Setup (Major Key)3
Fm7 -> C7susSetup (Major Key)2
C7sus -> Fm7Resolution (Minor)2
Fm7 -> C7#5Setup (Major Key)2
C7#5 -> Fm7Resolution (Minor)2

Harmonic Highlights

  • The core A section relies on a repetitive i7–IV7 (Fm7–Bb7) vamp, which emphasizes the F Dorian mode over a functional minor progression.
  • The B section utilizes a subdominant minor ii–V (Bbm7–Eb7), functioning as a temporary shift toward the subdominant region before cycling back to the tonic.
  • A chromatic descending bridge (Cm–Bm–Bbm7) creates smooth voice leading through parallel minor chords to connect the minor dominant to the subdominant.
  • The use of C7sus as a turnaround chord avoids the tension of a traditional V7 leading tone, maintaining the fluid, atmospheric nature of the samba style.

Improvisation Focus F Dorian mode.

Difficulty Rating 2/5 – The repetitive harmonic rhythm and lack of rapid modulations make it an accessible entry point for practicing modal improvisation.


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The Real Book - Volume III
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