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Related Music Theory Alchemy

“Wonderwall” by Oasis is in the key of G major and features an effective and memorable chord progression that repeats throughout the song. The progression falls into the indie rock and Britpop genres, highlighting simple, strong harmonies, and incorporates a repeated sequence of Em–G-D–A7sus4 throughout its composition with occasional deviations.

“Don’t Look Back in Anger” by Oasis, a popular rock ballad, is characterized by its melancholic chord progressions. Its key is major, specifically C Major, but it involves a frequent use of borrowed chords for a touch of bitterness, matching the poignant lyrics.

The chord progression in Beck’s “Nobody’s Fault But My Own” from Verse 1 features a mix of diatonic and borrowed chords, primarily from the D Major scale but also incorporating chords from the parallel minor and other related keys. This gives the progression a unique and fresh sound that sets it apart from more traditional progressions. Notably, there are several pedal points using the D root throughout the progression, which helps maintain a sense of tonal center.

The chord progression of “Say Goodbye” by Beck uses a combination of diatonic and borrowed chords within the key of G major. The verse features a total of 8 chords: G major, A# major, A minor, and C major. The use of a borrowed chord (A# major) adds an interesting twist to the progression and provides a unique color to the harmony.

The chord progression in the verse of “Telepatia” by Kali Uchis showcases a mix of diatonic and chromatic harmony. The progression is built around the key of G Major and has a strong Latin and jazz-influenced sound. The use of extended chords like Gmaj7 and Em9 adds depth and sophistication to the harmony, while the non-diatonic B7 contributes to the tension and resolution.

Oasis – Wonderwall – Verse 1

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Chord Progression

[‘Em’, ‘G’, ‘D’, ‘A7sus4’, ‘Em’, ‘G’, ‘D’, ‘A7sus4’, ‘Em’, ‘G’, ‘D’, ‘A7sus4’, ‘C’, ‘D’, ‘A7sus4’, ‘A7sus4’]

Chord Progression Analysis

This is the chord progression for the verse:
“`
Em (vi),
G (I),
D (V),
A7sus4 (V7sus4),
Em (vi),
G (I),
D (V),
A7sus4 (V7sus4),
Em (vi),
G (I),
D (V),
A7sus4 (V7sus4),
C (IV),
D (V),
A7sus4 (V7sus4),
A7sus4 (V7sus4)
“`
This progression uses the common I-V-vi-IV sequence, which is found in numerous pop songs (Oasis uses different permutations of this progression).

“`The A7sus4 chord is technically a borrowed chord, as it incorporates the note D, which is not part of the G major scale.“`

Similar Chord Progressions

1. “Let It Be” by The Beatles:
“`
C (IV),
G (I),
Am (ii),
F (IV),
C (IV),
G (I),
F (VI),
C (IV)
“`

2. “No Woman No Cry” by Bob Marley:
“`
C (IV),
G (I),
Am (ii),
F (VI),
C (IV),
F (VI),
C (IV),
G(I)
“`

3. “High and Dry” by Radiohead: OK Computer
“`
Am (ii),
E (V/vi),
Am (ii),
E (V/vi)
“`

These songs also display the common/popular I-V-vi-IV chord progression, or a variation of it, similar to “Wonderwall.”

Musical Analysis

The verse of “Wonderwall” has a distinctly repetitive progression that makes it catchy and memorable – important elements for a mainstream pop rock song. The progression lends the song a sense of narrative progression, which is common in mainstream pop, rock, and folk music. The A7sus4 chord introduces tension that pulls towards a resolution, emphasizing the song’s emotive quality.

Overall Analysis

“Wonderwall” is a song by Oasis, a British rock band. The song showcases the blend of rock and Britpop style. The chord progression in the verse reflects a strong pop feeling, primarily residing in the key of G major.

Style Analysis

Oasis’ “Wonderwall” matches their typical sonic offering; a blend of guitar-driven rock and Britpop. The repetitive chord progression underpinning the melody provides a strong, catchy rhythm that drives the song forward, keeping the listener engaged. This reflects the band’s ethos of simplicity in structure with high emotive payoff.

Chords in the Verse 1 section of Wonderwall by Oasis are:

[‘Em’, ‘G’, ‘D’, ‘A7sus4’, ‘Em’, ‘G’, ‘D’, ‘A7sus4’, ‘Em’, ‘G’, ‘D’, ‘A7sus4’, ‘C’, ‘D’, ‘A7sus4’, ‘A7sus4’]