Chord Distribution Analysis

Chord SymbolCountFrequency
Dm7b5616.2%
G7b9513.5%
C638.1%
Bbm725.4%
Eb725.4%
Abmaj725.4%
Cm725.4%
Am7b525.4%

Key Patterns Detected

PatternFunctionFrequency
Dm7b5 -> G7b9Setup (Minor Key)5
Bbm7 -> Eb7Setup (Major Key)2
Eb7 -> Abmaj7Resolution (Major)2
G7b9 -> Cm7Resolution (Minor)2
Gm7b5 -> C7b9Setup (Minor Key)2
Ebm7 -> Ab7Setup (Major Key)1
Ab7 -> Dbmaj7Resolution (Major)1
C7b9 -> Fm7Resolution (Minor)1
C7b9 -> Fm6Resolution (Minor)1
Dm7 -> G7Setup (Major Key)1

Harmonic Highlights

  • The initial shift from C6 to a ii-V in Ab major (Bbm7–Eb7–Abmaj7) exemplifies a sophisticated modulation to the bVI key, typical of the ballad sub-genre.
  • Persistent minor ii-V-i cells (Dm7b5–G7b9–Cm7) define the primary tonal center, requiring smooth voice leading between half-diminished and altered dominant structures.
  • The bridge employs sequential ii-V-I modulations, transposing from Db major (Ebm7–Ab7) to F minor (Gm7b5–C7), showcasing a shift by a perfect fourth.
  • Use of the Am7b5 acts as a pivot, functioning as a #vi half-diminished chord that bridges the parallel major and minor tonalities.

Improvisation Focus Targeting chord tones (specifically 3rds and 7ths) within minor ii-V-i progressions using the C Harmonic Minor and G Altered scales.

Difficulty Rating 3/5: The slow tempo demands melodic control over frequent key shifts and complex minor-key functional harmony.


📚 Standard Available in:

The Real Book - Volume II
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