Chord Distribution Analysis

Chord SymbolCountFrequency
Bb7412.5%
Ebmaj739.4%
C739.4%
Am7b526.2%
D7b1326.2%
Gm7b526.2%
C7b1326.2%
F726.2%

Key Patterns Detected

PatternFunctionFrequency
Am7b5 -> D7b13Setup (Minor Key)2
D7b13 -> Gm7b5Resolution (Minor)2
Gm7b5 -> C7Setup (Minor Key)2
Fm7 -> Bb7Setup (Major Key)2
Bbm7 -> Eb7Setup (Major Key)1
Eb7 -> Abmaj7Resolution (Major)1
Gm7 -> C7Setup (Major Key)1
C7 -> Fm7Resolution (Minor)1
Bb7 -> Ebmaj7Resolution (Major)1

Harmonic Highlights

  • Employs sequential secondary ii-V progressions (Am7b5–D7 and Gm7b5–C7) to create descending chromatic tension toward the ii chord (Fm7).
  • Features a classic modal interchange sequence (Abmaj7 to Abm6), utilizing the minor subdominant to provide the song’s signature melancholic resolution to the tonic.
  • Utilizes a tritone substitute dominant (B7) to create a chromatic approach from the II7 (F7) to the primary V7 (Bb7).
  • Navigates temporary modulations to the subdominant (Ab) through ii-V-I cycles (Bbm7–Eb7–Abmaj7), requiring smooth transitional voice leading.

Improvisation Focus Voice leading the minor subdominant (IVm6) using the Ab Melodic Minor scale to emphasize the characteristic b6 (Cb/B natural).

Difficulty Rating 3/5: The slow ballad tempo is accessible, but the density of secondary dominants and modal interchanges requires a sophisticated understanding of altered extensions.


📚 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.