Here are some interesting facts about jazz chords:
Seventh Chords: Jazz chords often include seventh chords, such as major 7th, minor 7th, dominant 7th, and minor 7th flat 5 (also known as half-diminished 7th). These extended chords add a rich and complex harmonic texture to jazz music.
Extended Chords: Jazz musicians frequently use extended chords beyond the basic triads and sevenths. These can include 9th, 11th, and 13th chords, which add even more color and depth to the music.
Altered Chords: Jazz chords are known for their altered extensions and tensions. These alterations can include sharp or flat 5th, sharp or flat 9th, and sharp or flat 13th. These alterations create tension and resolve in jazz progressions.
Chord Inversions: Jazz musicians often use chord inversions to create smooth and interesting voice leading in their compositions. Inversions change the order of chord tones, providing a different harmonic flavor.
Voicings: Jazz chords can be voiced in various ways. Pianists and guitarists, for example, may use different voicings to achieve specific sounds. Common voicings include rootless voicings, drop 2, and drop 3 voicings.
ii-V-I Progressions: One of the most common chord progressions in jazz is the ii-V-I progression. It involves the chords of the second degree, the fifth degree, and the first degree in a key. This progression is the backbone of many jazz standards.
Chromatic Passing Chords: Jazz musicians often incorporate chromatic passing chords to add movement and interest to their chord progressions. These passing chords are not diatonic to the key but are used to create tension and resolution.
Chord Substitutions: Jazz musicians frequently use chord substitutions to add unexpected harmonic twists to a piece. Tritone substitution and diminished seventh substitution are common techniques in jazz.
Modal Jazz: Some jazz compositions are based on modal harmony, using modes derived from scales like the Dorian, Mixolydian, and Lydian modes. Modal jazz can have a more open and free harmonic structure.
Bebop Chords: Bebop, a subgenre of jazz, introduced various complex chord structures and substitutions, challenging musicians with intricate harmonic changes and faster chord progressions.
These facts provide a glimpse into the rich and intricate world of jazz chords, which are a fundamental element of jazz music and its unique sound.