Chord Distribution Analysis

Chord SymbolCountFrequency
Cm71218.8%
F7812.5%
Bb7812.5%
Fm7710.9%
Eb669.4%
Gm746.2%
Dm7b546.2%
G7b946.2%

Key Patterns Detected

PatternFunctionFrequency
Cm7 -> F7Setup (Major Key)4
Dm7b5 -> G7b9Setup (Minor Key)2
G7b9 -> Cm7Resolution (Minor)2
Fm7 -> Bb7Setup (Major Key)2
F7 -> Cm7Resolution (Minor)1
Bbm7 -> Eb7Setup (Major Key)1
Eb7 -> Abmaj7Resolution (Major)1
Abmaj7 -> Db7Setup (Major Key)1

Harmonic Highlights

  • The progression utilizes a diatonic stepwise ascent (I–ii–iii–vi) in Eb major, creating a lyrical, climbing melodic contour.
  • Secondary dominants are prominent, specifically the F7 (V/V) which sets up the transition to the Bb7 (V7) turnaround.
  • A clear ii–V–i modulation to the relative minor (Dm7b5–G7b9–Cm7) shifts the tonal center to C minor, adding emotional depth.
  • The 3/4 waltz meter dictates a harmonic rhythm where chords often sustain for full measures, emphasizing the strong beats of the triple time.

Improvisation Focus Functional diatonic soloing with a focus on guide tone transitions through the circle of fifths.

Difficulty Rating 3/5: The waltz feel and the shift to the relative minor require fluid phrasing and careful navigation of minor ii-V-i resolutions.


📚 Standard Available in:

The Real Book - Volume III
🛒 Buy on Amazon
As 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.