Chord Distribution Analysis

Chord SymbolCountFrequency
Dm7411.4%
Em738.6%
Am738.6%
Fmaj7#1125.7%
B7#925.7%
G725.7%
Gm725.7%
C725.7%

Key Patterns Detected

PatternFunctionFrequency
B7#9 -> Em7Resolution (Minor)2
Dm7 -> G7Setup (Major Key)2
Gm7 -> C7Setup (Major Key)2
Bm7b5 -> E7b13Setup (Minor Key)1
E7b13 -> Am7Resolution (Minor)1
C7 -> Fmaj7#11Resolution (Major)1
A7 -> Dm7Resolution (Minor)1
Fm7 -> Bb7Setup (Major Key)1
Em7 -> A7b9Setup (Major Key)1

Harmonic Highlights

  • The progression utilizes a sophisticated opening IVmaj7 to VII7#9 to iii7 (Fmaj7#11–B7#9–Em7), where the B7 functions as a secondary dominant (V/iii) to the mediant.
  • Frequent minor ii-V-i cells (Bm7b5–E7b13–Am7) pull the tonality toward the relative minor, requiring a shift to A harmonic minor.
  • The use of secondary ii-V patterns (Gm7–C7) tonicizes the subdominant (Fmaj7), adding harmonic depth beyond simple C major diatonicism.
  • Inversions and descending bass lines (Am7/E to Dm7/C) create smooth scalar voice leading through the bridge and transitions.

Improvisation Focus Navigating the frequent shifts between C major and A melodic/harmonic minor over the minor ii-V-i progressions.

Difficulty Rating 3 (Intermediate). The song is mostly diatonic but requires fluid navigation of secondary dominants and minor-key turnarounds that temporarily deviate from the home key.


Standard Available in:

  • The Real Book - Volume I
  • The Real Latin Book
  • The Real Vocal Book - Volume I
Check the Hal Leonard Jazz Song Finder to make sure that the standard is indeed in the book.