Chord Distribution Analysis

Chord SymbolCountFrequency
Eb6820.5%
Bb7717.9%
Fm7615.4%
Ebmaj7512.8%
C7b937.7%
Eb725.1%
Abmaj725.1%
Abm712.6%

Key Patterns Detected

PatternFunctionFrequency
Fm7 -> Bb7Setup (Major Key)6
C7b9 -> Fm7Resolution (Minor)3
Bb7 -> Fm7Resolution (Minor)2
Bb7 -> Ebmaj7Resolution (Major)2
Eb7 -> Abmaj7Resolution (Major)2
Ebmaj7 -> Bb7Setup (Major Key)1
Abm7 -> Db7Setup (Major Key)1
Gm7 -> C7b9Setup (Major Key)1
Fm7b5 -> Bb7b9Setup (Minor Key)1

Harmonic Highlights

  • Employs a VI7(b9) secondary dominant (C7b9) to create tension leading into the ii-V (Fm7-Bb7) progression.
  • Utilizes a “backdoor” sequence (Abm7 to Db7) as a modal interchange, resolving the iv minor to the bVII7 before returning to the tonic.
  • Features frequent ii-V-I turnarounds that establish Eb major, typical of mid-century ballad construction.
  • Transitions from the IV (Abmaj7) to the minor iv (Abm7) to add a characteristic “melancholy” harmonic color.

Improvisation Focus Eb Major Bebop scale and chord-tone targeting to navigate the secondary dominants while maintaining the song’s lyrical phrasing.

Difficulty Rating 2/5: The progression relies on standard diatonic movements and common jazz cadences, making it highly accessible for intermediate improvisers.


📚 Standard Available in:

The Real Book - Volume III
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