Superscript (Alternate) Chord Symbols

[KOYCARP]

In the song 'That Old feeling' there appears, above the main chord symbols, other chord symbols in a smaller font. These don't play - what is their purpose?

 

[raymb1]

Superscript chords

In the song 'That Old feeling' there appears, above the main chord symbols, other chord symbols in a smaller font. These don't play - what is their purpose?

They are substitute chords to be used when you're just reading the chart and not playing iReal.

 

[KOYCARP]

Thanks. If I were to re-write the song using the superscript chords would I find them more harmonically interesting in your opinion?

 

[Keith88]

It depends on the song and the chords. Often, they are more interesting; they may be tritone substitutions or reharmonizations. They may be a different turnaround or a ii-V-I in the relative minor or something like that. It is a matter of your taste and preference.

I sometimes use alternative chords to indicate the chords used in a favorite jazz performance with non-standard changes.

 

[KOYCARP]

Thanks all