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The chorus of “Right Where It Belongs” by Nine Inch Nails is built upon a repeating four-chord progression of Gm-Bb-F-C. This song is in the key of Bb major (with two flats in the key signature, Bb and Eb). All the chords used in this song are derived from the Bb major scale, which makes this a diatonic chord progression. There is no borrowed or chromatic harmony in this song.

The chord progression in the chorus of “Nude” by Radiohead features a mix of diatonic and borrowed chords, with some added tensions for additional color. It reflects the band’s signature style of blending unexpected harmonic elements to create a unique and evocative sound. In particular, the mix of major and minor chords with added tensions lends a sense of both familiarity and unconventionality to the progression.

The chord progression in the chorus of “Sexx Laws” by Beck is a non-diatonic chord progression that features chromatic and unexpected chords. The progression seems to be based in the key of E major, but the chords used are not strictly within the E major scale, providing a distinctive sound and style characteristic of Beck’s music. The progression contains some parallel major chords, giving it a distinct classic rock vibe.

“If You’re Wondering If I Want You To (I Want You To)” by Weezer has a chorus featuring a chord progression in the key of D major. The progression includes chords from both the major and minor scales while still primarily using diatonic chords from D major. The style of the progression is reminiscent of 90s alternative rock, and it finds similarity with other iconic chord progressions in rock music.

Nine Inch Nails – Right Where It Belongs – Chorus

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Chord Progression

Gm, Bb, F, C, Gm, Bb, F, C, Gm, Bb, F, C, Gm, Bb, F, C, Gm, Bb, F, C

Chord Progression Analysis

Based on the provided chord progressions and analyzing the base key, the song appears to be in the key of G minor. The chorus chord progression occurs as follows:

G minor (i), Bb Major (III), F Major (VII), C Major (IV),
G minor (i), Bb Major (III), F Major (VII), C Major (IV),
G minor (i), Bb Major (III), F Major (VII), C Major (IV),
G minor (i), Bb Major (III), F Major (VII), C Major (IV),
G minor (i), Bb Major (III), F Major (VII), C Major (IV)

There are no borrowed chords in this progression.

Similar Chord Progressions

1. “With or Without You” by U2:
D Major (I), A Major (V), B minor (vi), G Major (IV)

2. “Don’t Stop Believin’” by Journey:
E Major (I), B Major (V), C# minor (vi), A Major (IV)

3. “Apologize” by OneRepublic:
Cm (i), Ab (VI), Eb (III), Bb (VII)

These songs have similar pop and alternative rock style chord progressions. They share the use of major and minor chords to create an emotional and melodic quality, which may evoke feelings of nostalgia, sadness, or resolution. While they are not identical to the chord progression in “Right Where It Belongs”, the essence of the emotional connection through the progression is analogous.

Musical Analysis

The harmonic progression of the chorus is unique, with the G minor (i) starting off the section and going to Bb Major (III), which is borrowed from its parallel major G major, giving a slight lift two steps away from the root key, and then resolving to its relative major F Major (VII). The progression then smoothly moves to C Major (IV), which is shared by G major and C major diatonics. As a result, this creates an interesting movement and emotional quality to the music.

Overall Analysis

“Right Where It Belongs” by Nine Inch Nails is a song characterized by its melodic and harmonic structure. It has a unique yet familiar sound, blending pop and alternative rock elements with its rich chord progression and powerful melody.

Style Analysis

The style of “Right Where It Belongs” is inherently alternative rock with electronic, industrial, and ambient elements. The song features synthesizers and electronic instruments, creating a dense and atmospheric sound, while the acoustic piano and Trent Reznor’s emotive voice adds depth to the piece. The harmonic progression provides an emotional and melancholic quality, which aids in establishing the mood of the song.

Chords in the Chorus section of Right Where It Belongs by Nine Inch Nails are:

Gm, Bb, F, C, Gm, Bb, F, C, Gm, Bb, F, C, Gm, Bb, F, C, Gm, Bb, F, C