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Related Music Theory Alchemy

The chord progression for Radiohead’s “All I Need” chorus features a simple and repetitive structure, with a strong emphasis on the tonic (C major) and its relative minor (E minor). The progression then ends with a brief move to the dominant (G major), before returning to the tonic. This accessible sequence reflects the song’s emotional vulnerability and simplicity, while also showcasing the band’s ability to create emotional depth in their music.

“Motion Picture Soundtrack” is an alternative rock song by Radiohead from their album “Kid A” released in 2000. The chord progression in the hook features a mixture of harmonic choices from both diatonic and non-diatonic sources, with borrowed chords and chromatic notes. The style displays a unique blend of rock, electronic, and experimental music elements, which is characteristic of the art/pop-rock genre of the time.

“Every Day Is Exactly The Same” by Nine Inch Nails is primarily composed in the key of E minor. The song consists of four sections: Verse 1, Chorus, Verse 2, and Bridge. The chord progressions in the song are relatively simple, with a distinct alternation between E and C chords in the verses, while the chorus and bridge sections feature a broader range of chords such as A, C, and G.

Chord Progression Analysis (Verse 2):
E minor (i), C major (VI), E minor (i), C major (VI), E minor (i), C major (VI), G major (III), F major (♭VII; borrowed chord from E Phrygian), E minor (i)

*G major (III) and F major (♭VII) are both non-diatonic chords in E minor, with the F major chord being borrowed from the E Phrygian mode.

The song “Every Day Is Exactly The Same” by Nine Inch Nails has a dark and moody atmosphere, characterized by the repetitive chord progression that sets the gloomy tone. This prolific use of chords throughout snippets of the song creates a musical portrait of monotony and disillusion which is reflective of the song’s title and lyrics. Looking at the chords provided from the second verse, this mood is accomplished through the consistent use of minor tonalities and alternation between two power chords – E and C.

“Lord Only Knows” by Beck showcases a simple yet effective chord progression in its Verse 2. The harmonic foundation of this progression is based on the I – V – IV – I pattern, repeated four times. This pattern is common in many popular music genres, with the verse featuring a strong tonic-dominant relationship. The progression also displays an interesting mix of major and minor chords, adding a certain level of spice to the harmonic atmosphere present in the verse.

Radiohead – All I Need – Verse 2

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Chord Progression

C, Em, G, C, Em, G, C, C, Em, G, C, Em, G, C, C, Em, G, C, Em, G, C

Chord Progression Analysis

C (I) – Em (iii) – G (V) – C (I) – Em (iii) – G (V) – C (I) – C (I) – Em (iii) – G (V) – C (I) – Em (iii) – G (V) – C (I) – C (I) – Em (iii) – G (V) – C (I) – Em (iii) – G (V) – C (I)

There are no borrowed chords in this progression.

Similar Chord Progressions

1. Coldplay – “Yellow”: C (I) – G (V) – F (IV) – G (V) – F (IV) – Am (vi) – G (V)
2. Oasis – “Wonderwall”: C (I) – Em7 (ii7) – G (V) – D (IV) -7 Em7 (ii7) -7 Dsus4/f# (IVsus47) – A (II)
3. U2 – “With or Without You”: D (I) – A (V) – Bm (vi) – G (IV)

These progressions also feature simple and straightforward chord sequences, often focused on the I, IV, and V chords with occasional use of vi or iii chords. This provides a similar sense of stability and allows for strong emotional connection with the audience.

Musical Analysis

The progression’s simplicity and the repetition of the chords give the song a hypnotic quality. The use of the I (C), iii (Em), and V (G) chords contributes to a sense of stability and familiarity, making it an ideal backdrop for the tender and emotional vocal melody. The choice of chords also adds a level of transparency to the harmonies, preventing any sense of clutter or harmonic busyness.

Overall Analysis

The chord progression in Verse 2 of Radiohead’s “All I Need” is a relatively simple and straightforward progression featuring chords from the key of C major. The progression revolves around the I, iii, and V chords (C, Em, and G), providing a tonal base that’s consistent and easy to follow. Radiohead’s use of repetition and minimalism in this progression contributes to an emotional atmosphere and allows listeners to focus on the lyrics and other musical elements.

Style Analysis

In the broader context of Radiohead’s work, this progression showcases their willingness to embrace simplicity and let the other elements of their music shine. It’s an example of their minimalist tendencies, providing room for Thom Yorke’s vocals and the song’s atmospheric and textural elements to take center stage. The consistency of the progression and the emotional impact it generates are characteristics of Radiohead’s unique style and sound.

Chords in the Verse 2 section of All I Need by Radiohead are:

C, Em, G, C, Em, G, C, C, Em, G, C, Em, G, C, C, Em, G, C, Em, G, C