Coldplay – Viva La Vida – Verse 2
Viva La Vida < All Analyses
Chord Progression
C, D, G, Em, C, D, G, Em, C, D, G, Em, C, D, G, EmChord Progression Analysis
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C Major (I)
D Major (‘V/V)
G Major (IV)
E minor (vi)
The progression repeats four times. It is important to denote that D Major is a borrowed chord in this case, functioning as a secondary dominant (‘V/V – dominant of the dominant) to G Major.
**Chord Symbols in Code: (For Borrowed Chord Indication)**
D Major (V/V)**
Similar Chord Progressions
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Here are some songs which share similar chord progressions in the genre of pop rock:
1. “Let it Be” by The Beatles: C – G – Am – F (or in terms of Roman numerals: I – V – vi – IV)
2. “No Woman No Cry” by Bob Marley: C – G – Am – F
(I – V – vi – IV)
3. “Don’t Stop Believing” by Journey: E – B – C#m – A
(I – V – vi – IV)
This highlights the fact that the I – V – vi – IV progression (or a variant of it) is something that has been popularly used in many successful songs across genres and decades.
Musical Analysis
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The progression starts with a major tonic chord which gives a sense of stability. The second chord, D major, which is a borrowed chord, adds a bit of suspense, essentially pulling towards the G major chord, creating a resolution. The fourth and last chord, E minor, gives a touch of melancholia to the musical phrase.
The progression itself is quiet dynamic, constantly moving forward and driving the song. Also, the oscillation between major and minor chords brings a good balance of cheerful and more introspective moments.
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Overall Analysis
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“Viva la Vida” mostly utilizes a four-chord progression thorough the song which is fairly common in popular music. The verse we are focusing on replicating the verse goes like this: C – D – G – Em. The chord progressions are pretty simple, catchy and give the song an uplifting feel.
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Style Analysis
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Coldplay is known for their uplifting, anthemic style of music and ‘Viva la Vida’ fits into this style perfectly. There is a mix of pop and rock elements, with a catchy, repeating chord progression that drives the song and makes it memorable.
The use of simple and common chord progressions is a hallmark of Coldplay’s music and ‘Viva la Vida’ is no exception. The band often uses simple and repetitive chord progressions as a background for their outstanding melody lines and lyrics.
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What are the chords in: Coldplay – Viva La Vida – Verse 2?
C, D, G, Em, C, D, G, Em, C, D, G, Em, C, D, G, Em