Sentimental Journey (C major) - Jazz Analysis & Chords

Chord Distribution Analysis

No obvious ii-V patterns detected.

Harmonic Highlights

• Employs a secondary dominant chain (VI7 - II7 - V7) to create a strong cycle-of-fourths pull back to the tonic C6.
• Features a #IV diminished 7th chord (F#o7) acting as a chromatic passing harmony between the IV and the tonic or V chord.
• Utilizes a backdoor dominant (Bb7) to provide a bluesy, non-diatonic resolution toward the home key.
• Prioritizes major 6th chords over major 7ths, maintaining the consonant, stable tonal center characteristic of 1940s swing.

Improvisation Focus C Major Pentatonic scale with added blues notes (Eb, Gb).

Difficulty Rating 1/5 — The slow harmonic rhythm and predictable diatonic movements make it an ideal entry-point for beginners learning to navigate secondary dominants.