Chord Distribution Analysis

Chord SymbolCountFrequency
Bb7514.7%
Cmaj7411.8%
Fm7411.8%
Dm7411.8%
G7411.8%
Em738.8%
A738.8%
C625.9%

Key Patterns Detected

PatternFunctionFrequency
Fm7 -> Bb7Setup (Major Key)4
Dm7 -> G7Setup (Major Key)4
Em7 -> A7Setup (Major Key)3
A7 -> Dm7Resolution (Minor)2
Gm7 -> C7Setup (Major Key)1
C7 -> Fmaj7Resolution (Major)1
Fmaj7 -> Bb7Setup (Major Key)1
G7 -> Cmaj7Resolution (Major)1

Harmonic Highlights

  • The “backdoor” ii-V progression (Fm7-Bb7) creates a subdominant minor pull, resolving chromatically back to the Cmaj7 tonic.
  • Sequential iii-VI-ii-V motion (Em7-A7-Dm7-G7) provides a strong diatonic cycle of fourths, utilizing secondary dominants to drive the harmony.
  • Tonicization of the subdominant (Fmaj7) via a secondary ii-V (Gm7-C7) expands the harmonic palette beyond the primary key center.
  • Use of the V of V (D7) before the final cadence adds a classical “half-cadence” tension before returning to the ii-V-I.

Improvisation Focus Mastering the C Major scale while strictly targeting the Ab and Bb altered tones during the Fm7-Bb7 sequences to highlight the modal interchange.

Difficulty Rating 2/5 โ€” The piece relies on standard functional harmony and common jazz turnarounds, making it accessible for intermediate players to navigate.


๐Ÿ“š Standard Available in:

The Real Book - Volume II
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