Chord Distribution Analysis
| Chord Symbol | Count | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Bbmaj7 | 4 | 10.8% |
| E7 | 3 | 8.1% |
| Em7b5 | 3 | 8.1% |
| A7 | 3 | 8.1% |
| Cm7b5 | 3 | 8.1% |
| Eb7 | 2 | 5.4% |
| D7 | 2 | 5.4% |
| Dm7b5 | 2 | 5.4% |
Key Patterns Detected
| Pattern | Function | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Em7b5 -> A7 | Setup (Minor Key) | 3 |
| Dm7b5 -> G7b9 | Setup (Minor Key) | 2 |
| G7b9 -> Cm7b5 | Resolution (Minor) | 2 |
| F#m7 -> B7 | Setup (Major Key) | 1 |
| Bm7 -> E7 | Setup (Major Key) | 1 |
| E7 -> Amaj7 | Resolution (Major) | 1 |
| A7 -> Dmaj7 | Resolution (Major) | 1 |
| Cm7b5 -> F7 | Setup (Minor Key) | 1 |
| F7 -> Bbmaj7 | Resolution (Major) | 1 |
| Bbmaj7 -> F7sus | Setup (Major Key) | 1 |
| F7sus -> Bbmaj7 | Resolution (Major) | 1 |
| Bbmaj7 -> F7 | Setup (Major Key) | 1 |
🎼 Sheet Music
Find Lead Sheet on Sheet Music Direct (PDF)Harmonic Highlights:
- The opening Bbmaj7 (bVImaj7) to E7 (II7) creates a sophisticated chromatic entry that delays tonic resolution through Ellington’s signature non-diatonic voice leading.
- Extensive m7b5 chords function as secondary subdominants (Em7b5, Dm7b5), navigating complex sequences of II-V-I progressions that weave through temporary key centers.
- The bridge features a sudden modulation to E major, using a F#m7-B7-Emaj7 sequence to provide a bright tonal shift from the D major home key.
- Use of tritone substitutions (Eb7 to D) and diminished passing chords (Gº7) ensures smooth, step-wise bass movement typical of sophisticated ballad arrangements.
Improvisation Focus: Chromatic voice leading and melodic targeting of altered chord extensions.
Difficulty Rating: 4/5; the dense harmonic landscape and frequent modulations require advanced knowledge of functional and non-functional harmony to navigate fluently.
📚 Standard Available in:
The Real Book - Volume II
🛒 Buy on AmazonAs 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.