Chord Distribution Analysis

Chord SymbolCountFrequency
Ebmaj7614.0%
Gm7511.6%
Cm7511.6%
D7b9/F#49.3%
Fm649.3%
Ebm737.0%
Emaj724.7%
Bbmaj724.7%

Key Patterns Detected

PatternFunctionFrequency
Gm7 -> D7b9/F#Setup (Major Key)2
D7 -> Gm7Resolution (Minor)1

Harmonic Highlights

  • The chromatic bass descent (G-Gb-F-E-Eb) creates a dense, melancholic atmosphere through the use of slash chords like D7b9/F# and Fm6.
  • The inclusion of Emaj7 serves as a striking non-diatonic neighbor chord to the submediant Ebmaj7, typical of Jobim’s “limit” harmony.
  • A pivot modulation via A13#9 leads to a bright Dmaj7, establishing a brief tonal shift to the parallel major key area.
  • The Ab7#11 functions as a tritone substitute (subV7) for the dominant D7, facilitating a smooth re-entry into the G minor tonic.

Improvisation Focus G Melodic Minor, specifically utilizing the dark colors of the minor-major 7th sound and smooth voice leading through the chromatic descents.

Difficulty Rating 4/5. The non-functional transitions and constant chromatic movement require advanced horizontal awareness and precise navigation of shifting tonal centers.


๐Ÿ“š Standard Available in:

The Real Latin Book
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