A Major 7th chord has certain qualities; It is rare when it is used in a song that is driving. A song like Misty or Stormy needs a Major 7th chord to be complete the song.

A major chord in a ballad or bosa nova is dry so adding a Major 7th or a 6th adds to the song. This is not limited to jazz, it fits whenever the Major chord needs help. I cannot picture playing a C major chord for 8 beats.

In a rock or blues progression – I IV V -- C F G7 try using all ninth chords with the ninth as the high leading note. C9 F9 G9

John C.