Chord Distribution Analysis

Chord SymbolCountFrequency
Cmaj7615.4%
Gmaj7410.3%
Bb07410.3%
Em7410.3%
A7410.3%
Am7410.3%
D7410.3%
Fmaj725.1%

Key Patterns Detected

PatternFunctionFrequency
Em7 -> A7Setup (Major Key)4
Am7 -> D7Setup (Major Key)3
Cmaj7 -> F7Setup (Major Key)2
D7 -> Gmaj7Resolution (Major)1
Fmaj7 -> Bb7#11Setup (Major Key)1
Dm7 -> G7Setup (Major Key)1

Harmonic Highlights

  • The progression utilizes Bb°7 as a chromatic passing chord between Gmaj7 and Cmaj7, creating smooth voice-leading tension that resolves into the tonic area.
  • Modal interchange is prominent in the Fmaj7 to Fm7 (IV-iv) sequence, introducing a “subdominant minor” color characteristic of the ballad style.
  • The use of A7 as a secondary dominant (VI7) creates a strong directional pull toward the ii chord (Dm7) or Am7, enriching the standard C major diatonicism.
  • A secondary ii-V-I sequence (Am7-D7-Gmaj7) briefly tonicizes the dominant, providing a temporary shift in tonal center before returning to the home key.

Improvisation Focus

  • Chord tone soloing emphasizing the 3rds and 7ths to navigate the frequent secondary dominants and chromatic transitions.

Difficulty Rating

  • 2/5. The predictable harmonic rhythm and clear functional resolutions make it an ideal entry point for studying secondary dominants and modal interchange.

📚 Standard Available in:

The Real Book - Volume III
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