Chord Distribution Analysis

Chord SymbolCountFrequency
Dm1145.3%
G7b9sus45.3%
Cmaj7/G45.3%
G13sus45.3%
Em734.0%
A7alt34.0%
Am734.0%
F07/C22.7%

Key Patterns Detected

PatternFunctionFrequency
A7alt -> Dm11Resolution (Minor)3
Dm11 -> G7b9susSetup (Major Key)3
Em7 -> A7altSetup (Major Key)2
Fm11 -> Bb7b9susSetup (Major Key)2
Gm7 -> C7b5b9Setup (Major Key)1
C7b5b9 -> Fm11Resolution (Minor)1
Am11 -> D7b5b9Setup (Major Key)1
D7b5b9 -> Gmaj7/DResolution (Major)1
B7 -> Emaj7#5Resolution (Major)1
E7 -> Amaj7Resolution (Major)1
F#m7 -> B7#5#9Setup (Major Key)1
G7 -> Cmaj7/GResolution (Major)1

Harmonic Highlights

  • Extensive use of 7sus(b9) voicings (G7b9sus, Bb7b9sus) creates a signature “shimmering” Phrygian-dominant texture that avoids traditional V-I tension.
  • Chromatic “side-slipping” ii-V cells, such as moving from Dm11 to Bbm7-Eb9, displace the tonal center and challenge functional G major expectations.
  • The harmonic rhythm relies on non-resolving sequences, where dominant structures often lead to another ii-V rather than a stable tonic.
  • Use of diminished passing chords (F#o7/C) functions as a pivot to bridge the gap between subdominant and tonic-parallel areas.

Improvisation Focus The Phrygian Dominant (Mixolydian b2 b6) scale is the essential tool for navigating the specific color of the recurring 7sus(b9) chords.

Difficulty Rating 4/5: The rapid, non-functional modulations and specific “sus-tension” requirements demand advanced modal fluency and sophisticated linear voice leading.


📚 Standard Available in:

The Real Pop Book - Volume 1
🛒 Buy on Amazon
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Check the Hal Leonard Jazz Song Finder to make sure that the standard is indeed in the book before buying it.