In the last lesson, we analyzed the progression using Roman numerals — the Bird’s Eye View. This gives us a big-picture understanding of how the chords function in A minor.
But today, I want to introduce another way of thinking about harmony — the Street View.
The Bird’s Eye View (Google Maps Overview)
When you zoom out, you see the “map” of the tune in terms of chord function:
- i = A minor
- ♭III7 = C7
- ♭VImaj7 = Fmaj7
- iiø7 = B half diminished
- V7alt = E7 altered
- ♭II7 = B♭7
This perspective helps you understand the tune’s structure, makes memorization easier, and allows you to transpose into any key.
The Street View (Chord-to-Chord Movement)
Now let’s zoom in — what’s happening between each chord?
👉 Think of this like navigating street corners on Google Maps.
A minor → C7
- Interval: up a minor 3rd
- Functionally: i → ♭III7
C7 → Fmaj7
- C7 is the V of F, so this is a classic V → I movement.
- Interval-wise: down a perfect 5th (or up a 4th).
Fmaj7 → B half diminished
- From F to B is a tritone (augmented 4th / diminished 5th).
- Tritones are symmetrical: same distance whether you go up or down.
B half diminished → E7
- Another cycle of 5ths movement (iiø7 → V7).
- Super strong resolution leading back to A minor.
By practicing this way of thinking, you start to see the shortest path from chord to chord, which is extremely useful on the guitar.
Why Learn Both Perspectives?
- Bird’s Eye View (Roman numerals): big-picture understanding, key centers, transposing.
- Street View (intervals): chord-to-chord navigation, cycle of 4ths/5ths, real-time improvisation.
If you combine both, you’re no longer “guessing shapes” — you’re truly navigating harmony.
What’s Next?
In the next lesson, we’ll dig into the specific harmonic devices in Sunny:
- Why does the B♭7 work even though it’s not in A minor?
- How tension and release shape the emotional impact of the tune.
- How to apply these concepts when playing or improvising.
Final Thoughts
Think of learning harmony like using Google Maps:
- Overview Mode (Bird’s Eye View) = Roman numeral analysis.
- Street View = interval movement between chords.
Mastering both perspectives will make you:
- Faster at learning tunes
- More confident when transposing
- Better prepared to improvise with intention
So next time you practice Sunny (or any tune), try switching between Bird’s Eye and Street View. You’ll be amazed how much more connected the fretboard feels.
Want to learn this classic jazz song properly? I offer private guitar lessons in Leeds tailored to your goals. Get in touch today and let’s take your playing to the next level.