Chord Distribution Analysis

Chord SymbolCountFrequency
Bb7413.3%
A7413.3%
G7413.3%
C6310.0%
D7310.0%
Dm7310.0%
Fm726.7%
C726.7%

Key Patterns Detected

PatternFunctionFrequency
Fm7 -> Bb7Setup (Major Key)2
Dm7 -> G7Setup (Major Key)2
F#m7b5 -> B7b9Setup (Minor Key)1
B7b9 -> Em7Resolution (Minor)1
Em7 -> A7Setup (Major Key)1
A7 -> Dm7Resolution (Minor)1
Em7b5 -> A7Setup (Minor Key)1

Harmonic Highlights

  • Employs a ‘backdoor’ ii-V progression (Fm7-Bb7) in the second measure, providing a sophisticated chromatic resolution to the tonic C6.
  • Features an extended secondary dominant chain (A7-D7-G7) following the cycle of fourths, which creates the rhythmic drive characteristic of the bebop era.
  • The bridge modulates to the mediant (iii) using a minor ii-V-i (F#m7b5-B7b9-Em7), introducing a darker tonal shift before returning to the A section.
  • Utilizes a minor ii-V (Em7b5-A7) to target the supertonic (Dm7), showcasing Parker’s preference for mixing parallel major and minor modes.

Improvisation Focus Mastering guide-tone connections through the backdoor ii-V, specifically targeting the Ab and Bb over the Fm7-Bb7 change.

Difficulty Rating 3/5: While the key is C major, the rapid-fire secondary dominants and the minor-key bridge require solid command of bebop scales and guide-tone voice leading.


📚 Standard Available in:

The Real Book - Volume II
🛒 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.