Chord Distribution Analysis
| Chord Symbol | Count | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Fmaj7 | 9 | 17.6% |
| Dm7 | 4 | 7.8% |
| Bb7 | 3 | 5.9% |
| Am7 | 3 | 5.9% |
| Eb7 | 3 | 5.9% |
| D7 | 3 | 5.9% |
| G7 | 3 | 5.9% |
| C7sus | 3 | 5.9% |
Key Patterns Detected
| Pattern | Function | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Em7b5 -> A7b9 | Setup (Minor Key) | 2 |
| Am7 -> D7 | Setup (Major Key) | 1 |
| Fmaj7 -> C7sus | Setup (Major Key) | 1 |
| C7sus -> Fmaj7 | Resolution (Major) | 1 |
| Dm7 -> G7 | Setup (Major Key) | 1 |
| A7b9 -> Dm7 | Resolution (Minor) | 1 |
| C7 -> Fmaj7 | Resolution (Major) | 1 |
| Fmaj7 -> Bb7 | Setup (Major Key) | 1 |
🎼 Sheet Music
Find Lead Sheet on Sheet Music Direct (PDF)Harmonic Highlights
- The opening sequence utilizes a chromatic descending bass line (Dm7–Dm7/C–Bm7b5–Bb7), creating a signature Ellingtonian “dark” ballad foundation via a line clichĂ©.
- Tritone substitutions such as Eb7 function as a subV/V, providing sophisticated harmonic tension before resolving into the G7 and C7 dominant cycles.
- The modulation from D minor to the relative F major is achieved through ii-V-I cadences and tonic pedal points (Gm7b5/F), utilizing modal interchange to brighten the tonal palette.
Improvisation Focus D Melodic Minor for the initial descent, prioritizing guide-tone voice leading through the shifting chromatic inner voices.
Difficulty Rating 3 (Intermediate): The performer must navigate the transition between parallel/relative keys while managing the tension of non-diatonic substitutions and chromatic bass movement.