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Related Music Theory Alchemy

The chord progression in the outro of “Fake Plastic Trees” by Radiohead utilizes some common and some less common harmonic devices. The piece employs diatonic chords with some added extensions, giving a sense of tension and release. Furthermore, the progression is in the key of A major, which contributes to the overall tonality and harmonic structure.

“Creep” by Radiohead is an alternative rock song in the key of G major, with a somewhat melancholic tone. The chord progression used is iconic, and it heavily relies on borrowed chords to create tension and resolution in the harmony. This use of chords creates a distinct sound that has become synonymous with the song.

The chorus of “California Kids” by Weezer features an interesting mix of primarily diatonic chords, with some borrowed chords and chromaticism. The chord progression has a pop-rock feel, with uplifting major and minor chords, and the use of the E major chords adds tension and intrigue.

“Time To Pretend” by MGMT features a non-conventional and interesting chord progression. The progression can be primarily analyzed in the key of D Major with a brief modulation to the relative minor (F#m). The chords are not sophisticated in terms of extensions, but the arrangement and harmonic movement provide a unique and memorable melody. This chorus is an example of diatonic and modal mixture, using chords not only from the primary key but also borrowing chords from other modes.

The song “Killer Queen” by Queen is primarily set in the key of F Major, while the Chorus 1 is in the key of G Major. The song’s harmonic voice leading and progressions reveal a sophisticated and nuanced approach that involves a continuous change of tonal center and utilization of secondary dominant and borrowed chords.

Radiohead – Fake Plastic Trees – Chorus 1

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Chord Progression

Bm7add11, A, Bm7add11, A, Asus4

Chord Progression Analysis

Bm7add11 (ii7add11), A (I), Bm7add11 (ii7add11), A (I), Asus4 (I4)

Borrowed Chord:
`None`

Similar Chord Progressions

1. Coldplay – “The Scientist” (Dm9, Bb, F, C, Csus4)
2. Jeff Buckley – “Hallelujah” (C, Am, C, Am, F, G, C, G, C)

These other compositions don’t follow the exact same chord progression as “Fake Plastic Trees,” but they share similar elements and characteristics, such as the use of add11 and sus4 chords to add flavor and tension to their progressions. Both songs, like “Fake Plastic Trees,” are in a major key and feature emotive vocal performances and memorable melodies.

Musical Analysis

The song starts with a Bm7add11 chord, which adds a touch of dissonance and tension as it includes the 11th (E note), creating an unresolved feeling. This tension is released when the progression moves to the A major chord, providing a sense of resolution before returning to the Bm7add11 chord for continued tension. The last chord, Asus4, serves as a slight variation to the A major chord and adds even more color and character to the progression, as it replaces the major third (C#) with a perfect fourth (D).

Overall Analysis

“Fake Plastic Trees” by Radiohead is in the key of A major and features an alternative rock style with a strong emphasis on the melody and a hauntingly beautiful vocal progression. The song contains a unique mix of simple and complex chords that give it a sense of tension and unease.

Style Analysis

Radiohead is known for their innovative and experimental approach to songwriting, which is evident in “Fake Plastic Trees.” The chord progression in the chorus is simple yet engaging, with the use of Bm7add11 and Asus4 chords adding depth and character to the otherwise straightforward I-ii progression. The verses feature simpler chords, allowing the focus to be on Thom Yorke’s emotive vocal performance. The strophic form used in the song creates a feeling of continuity, with each verse and chorus telling different parts of the same story.

Chords in the Chorus 1 section of Fake Plastic Trees by Radiohead are:

Bm7add11, A, Bm7add11, A, Asus4