Chord Distribution Analysis
| Chord Symbol | Count | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Bbm7 | 5 | 10.9% |
| F7 | 5 | 10.9% |
| Gb7 | 4 | 8.7% |
| Eb7 | 4 | 8.7% |
| Gmaj7 | 3 | 6.5% |
| Am7 | 3 | 6.5% |
| E7 | 2 | 4.3% |
| Abmaj7 | 2 | 4.3% |
Key Patterns Detected
| Pattern | Function | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Eb7 -> Abmaj7 | Resolution (Major) | 2 |
| Bbm7 -> Eb7 | Setup (Major Key) | 2 |
| Am7 -> D7 | Setup (Major Key) | 2 |
| Bm7 -> E7b9 | Setup (Major Key) | 1 |
| E7b9 -> Am7 | Resolution (Minor) | 1 |
| Am7 -> D7b9 | Setup (Major Key) | 1 |
| D7b9 -> Gmaj7 | Resolution (Major) | 1 |
| D7 -> Gmaj7 | Resolution (Major) | 1 |
| Cm7b5 -> F7 | Setup (Minor Key) | 1 |
| F7 -> Bbm7 | Resolution (Minor) | 1 |
| Cm7b5 -> F7b9 | Setup (Minor Key) | 1 |
🎼 Sheet Music
Find Lead Sheet on Sheet Music Direct (PDF)Harmonic Highlights
- The A section features a dense descending chromatic sequence (Gb7–F7–E7–Eb7) that utilizes tritone substitutions to create smooth, linear voice leading toward the Abmaj7 tonic.
- Ellington employs “side-slipping” ii-V progressions, where harmonic cells move by half-steps rather than traditional functional cycles, demanding precise melodic targeting.
- The bridge presents a striking modulation to G Major (the natural VII relative to Ab), creating a bright, distant tonal contrast to the darker, chromatic character of the primary theme.
- Frequent use of altered dominant tensions (such as E7b9) facilitates sophisticated resolution paths between unrelated key centers.
Improvisation Focus Chromatic voice leading and managing the sudden tonal shift during the modulation to the G Major bridge.
Difficulty Rating 4/5: The constant chromaticism and non-functional dominant chains require advanced harmonic awareness and the ability to navigate rapid key center shifts.
📚 Standard Available in:
The Real Book - Volume I
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