Chord Distribution Analysis

Chord SymbolCountFrequency
Dm7925.0%
G7925.0%
Cmaj7411.1%
C638.3%
A7b1325.6%
F725.6%
Em725.6%
Eb0725.6%

Key Patterns Detected

PatternFunctionFrequency
Dm7 -> G7Setup (Major Key)9
G7 -> Dm7Resolution (Minor)3
A7b13 -> Dm7Resolution (Minor)2
G7 -> Cmaj7Resolution (Major)2
Am7 -> D7Setup (Major Key)1

Harmonic Highlights

  • The progression utilizes a secondary dominant VI7 (A7b13) to create a chromatic bridge from the tonic (Cmaj7) to the supertonic (Dm7), establishing a sophisticated “long” ii-V feel.
  • A chromatic passing diminished chord (Eb°7) functions as a bridge between the iii7 (Em7) and ii7 (Dm7), facilitating smooth linear voice leading.
  • The inclusion of the IV7 (F7) provides a temporary modal mixture or blues-inflected subdominant sound, diverging from standard diatonic C major expectations.
  • Repeated ii-V-I cycles (Dm7-G7-Cmaj7) reinforce the tonal center while accommodating the melody’s wide leaps and tensions.

Improvisation Focus Navigating secondary dominants (VI7) and diminished passing chords using the C Major Bebop scale and chord tone targeting.

Difficulty Rating 3/5: While the key center is accessible, the frequent use of non-diatonic passing chords and altered dominants requires a solid grasp of chromatic voice leading.


📚 Standard Available in:

The Real Book - Volume I
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