Chord Distribution Analysis

Chord SymbolCountFrequency
Bb7618.2%
Eb6412.1%
Fm7412.1%
F7412.1%
Gm726.1%
C726.1%
Gm7b526.1%
C7b926.1%

Key Patterns Detected

PatternFunctionFrequency
Fm7 -> Bb7Setup (Major Key)4
Gm7 -> C7Setup (Major Key)2
C7 -> Fm7Resolution (Minor)2
Gm7b5 -> C7b9Setup (Minor Key)2
Bbm7 -> Eb7Setup (Major Key)1
Eb7 -> Abmaj7Resolution (Major)1
Cm7 -> F7Setup (Major Key)1

Harmonic Highlights

  • The progression follows a classic I-iii-VI-ii-V cycle (Eb6-Gm7-C7-Fm7-Bb7), characteristic of the 32-bar ballad form.
  • Uses a minor ii-V (Gm7b5-C7b9) to resolve into the ii chord (Fm7), creating a momentary shift toward the parallel minor functional area.
  • Tonicization of the IV chord (Abmaj7) is achieved through a secondary ii-V (Bbm7-Eb7) in the B section.
  • The turnaround utilizes chromatic alterations like the C7#5 to provide smooth voice-leading tension back to the F7 and Bb7 dominant pillars.

Improvisation Focus Fluent navigation of ii-V-I cells using Eb major and chord-tone targeting on the frequent secondary dominants.

Difficulty Rating 2/5. The harmony is largely diatonic and follows standard jazz vocabulary with predictable resolutions, making it highly accessible for intermediate soloists.


๐Ÿ“š Standard Available in:

The Real Book - Volume I
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