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The chord progression can be divided into three main sections (please see the details below). The first section is based around the I chord (C), the second section introduces the IV chord (F), then it returns to the I chord. The third section introduces a borrowed chord (bVII – Bb from C Mixolydian), a V chord (G), then returns to the I chord with a brief excursion back to the V chord. There is repetition in this section with the return to the I chord.

“Paint It Black” by The Rolling Stones is a masterful example of the band’s ability to incorporate a variety of musical elements into a rock setting. This song, in particular, unites a classic rock ‘n roll backbone with an exotic influence, likely derived from Eastern music, especially with the use of the sitar.

“Eleanor Rigby” is known for its unusual and innovative use of the Aeolian mode, otherwise known as the natural minor scale, which is reflected in the chord progression Em – C. The song incorporates string arrangements and has a narrative, storytelling style. Unlike most pop and rock songs of the time, it does not contain drums or guitars. The chord utilization is simple with only two chords used throughout, Em and C, but it nevertheless creates a unique and haunting soundscape.

The song constantly oscillates around C#m, which is the presumed root key. Harmonically, the 8-bar verse progression involves the frequent use of borrowed chords, as well as secondary dominants, which are frequently used in the Beatles’ compositions, to provide a colorful and subtle tension.

“Kiss” by Prince is primarily a rock song that features pop elements. The song utilizes power chords which are common in rock music, having a stripped-down chord structure that highlights the root and the fifth notes of the chord. The defined chord progression listed for Verse 3 is: [‘A5’, ‘D5’, ‘A5’]. This progression lacks the richness of Major or Minor chords but provides a solid, driving rhythm backbone to the song, prioritizing rhythmic energy over harmonic complexity.

The Rolling Stones – Brown Sugar – Verse 3

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Chord Progression

C, C, C, C, C, C, C, F, F, F, F, F, F, F, C, C, C, C, C, C, C, Bb, C, Bb, G, G, C, C, C, C, C, G, C, C, C, C, C

Chord Progression Analysis

C Major (I) – C Major (I) – C Major (I) – C Major (I) – C Major (I) – C Major (I) – C Major (I) – F Major (IV) – F Major (IV) – F Major (IV) – F Major (IV) – F Major (IV) – F Major (IV) – F Major (IV) – C Major (I) – C Major (I) – C Major (I) – C Major (I) – C Major (I) – C Major (I) – Bb Major (bVII) – C Major (I) – Bb Major (bVII) – G Major (V) – G Major (V) – C Major (I) – C Major (I) – C Major (I) – C Major (I) – G Major (V) – C Major (I) – C Major (I) – C Major (I) – C Major (I)

Borrowed Chord:
Bb Major (bVII)

Similar Chord Progressions

1. “Sweet Home Alabama” by Lynyrd Skynyrd:
D Major (I) – C Major (bVII) – G Major (IV) – D Major (I) – C Major (bVII) – G Major (IV)

2. “Fortunate Son” by Creedence Clearwater Revival:
G Major (I) – G Major (I) – F Major (bVII) – C Major (IV) – G Major (I)

3. “Let it Be” by The Beatles:
C Major (I) – G Major (V) – A minor (vi) – F Major (IV) – C Major (I) – F Major (IV) – C Major (I) – G Major (V)

These songs have similar chord progressions, featuring the primary chords I, IV, and V, and occasionally borrowing chords from other modes for added interest.

Musical Analysis

The song is built around a repeating pattern that moves through the C Major, F Major, and G Major chords, which are the I, IV, and V chords in the key of C Major. This is a common and traditional progression often found in blues, rock, and pop music. The Bb Major chord is borrowed from the mixolydian mode and adds variety and contrast to the otherwise diatonic progression.

Overall Analysis

“Brown Sugar” by The Rolling Stones is a rock and roll song prominently featuring electric guitar and piano, characterized by its driving groove and catchy chorus. The base key for the song is C Major. The harmonic progression is fairly simple and stays mainly within the diatonic chords, with some occasional borrowing from other modes.

Style Analysis

“Brown Sugar” is a classic rock and roll song with elements of blues and Southern rock. The driving rhythm, prominent guitar and piano, and repetitive chord pattern are typical for this style. The vocal melody is catchy and memorable, and the overall feel of the song is energetic and danceable, suitable for both radio play and live performance.

Chords in the Verse 3 section of Brown Sugar by The Rolling Stones are:

C, C, C, C, C, C, C, F, F, F, F, F, F, F, C, C, C, C, C, C, C, Bb, C, Bb, G, G, C, C, C, C, C, G, C, C, C, C, C