Chord Distribution Analysis

Chord SymbolCountFrequency
Cmaj7721.2%
Fmaj7412.1%
G7412.1%
Am739.1%
D739.1%
Em726.1%
A726.1%
Dm726.1%

Key Patterns Detected

PatternFunctionFrequency
A7 -> Dm7Resolution (Minor)2
Am7 -> D7Setup (Major Key)2
G7 -> Cmaj7Resolution (Major)2
C7 -> Gm7Resolution (Minor)1
Gm7 -> C7Setup (Major Key)1
D7 -> Am7Resolution (Minor)1
Cmaj7 -> G7Setup (Major Key)1

Harmonic Highlights

  • Secondary dominants such as A7 ($V^7/ii$) and D7 ($V^7/V$) provide chromatic motion and strong resolutions toward the ii and V chords.
  • The minor subdominant (Fm6) acts as a modal interchange (iv), introducing the $Ab$ (b6) for a classic “sentimental” cadence back to the tonic.
  • Tonicization of the IV chord via the Gm7-C7 ($ii-V/IV$) sequence temporarily shifts the tonal center to F major.
  • The inclusion of Bbmaj7 functions as a bVII (subtonic) chord, providing a “backdoor” flavor common in swing-era standards.

Improvisation Focus C Major scale with targeted voice leading on the $Ab$ pitch over the Fm6 chord and $C#$ over the A7 chord.

Difficulty Rating 2/5: The progression relies on standard diatonic functions and common secondary dominants, making it an accessible study in functional jazz harmony.