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Related Music Theory Alchemy

The piece “See You Again,” written by Tyler, The Creator, features a harmonically rich and somewhat unexpected chord progression. It steps away from traditional diatonic harmony, and instead experiments with the use of borrowed chords, particularly through the incorporation of the F#(b5) chord. This results in a unique and distinctive sound to the piece, as it mixes a sense of tension and resolution through the progression.

The chord progression appears to be in the key of Bb Major, and showcases various diatonic chords along with a few borrowed chords. This progression is characterized by a blend of smooth and rich harmony, primarily due to the use of 7th chords and suspensions. The introduction of the dominant B7 chord adds interest, making the progression more unpredictable and complex.

“Just The Two of Us” by Grover Washington Jr. is an easy-listening song, falling under R&B and jazz genres. It’s a classic example of the use of major 7th, dominant 7th, and minor 7th chords to create a rich, smooth harmonic texture. The chord progression is quite repetitive and follows a mixture of diatonic and chromatic movement.

The chord progression in the verse of Tyler, The Creator’s “Earfquake” is primarily based on a simple alternation between two chords, Bbmaj7 and Am7, with a brief excursion to Gm7 before returning to Am7. The simplicity and repetition of the progression creates a feeling of comfort and stability, while the use of major 7th and minor 7th chords adds a touch of sophistication and smoothness. The progression doesn’t follow a traditional functional harmony, but it effectively supports the melody and the overall vibe of the song.

The song “Purple Rain” by Prince is a classic and showcases some interesting use of chord progressions. The key of the song is G major. The classic, popular music formula is present in the use of common chords like I, ii, IV, V which are all diatonic within the key. Noticeably, this song opts for a more simplistic, cyclical chord progression structure that emphasizes repetition of strong melodic lines.

Tyler, The Creator – See You Again – Verse 1

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Chord Progression

F#maj7, F#maj7/B, Fmaj7, G#m7, D7#5, F#maj7, F#maj7/B, Fmaj7, G#m7, D7#5

Chord Progression Analysis

The verse contains a rich sound due to the use of major and minor seventh chords. The use of borrowed chords and chromaticism highlights Tyler, The Creator’s inclination towards both jazz harmonies and pop songwriting. The use of the chromatic Fmaj7 chord often leaves the listener waiting for a resolution, and the return to the tonic F#maj7 provides a sense of relief.

Similar Chord Progressions

Musical Analysis

Tyler, The Creator is known for taking musical influences from various genres and blending them together. The jazz-influenced harmonies in “See You Again” are an example of Tyler’s eclecticism. This particular chord progression showcases a distinct pop structure that leans into the harmonic unpredictability of jazz, providing a unique and engaging listening experience.

Overall Analysis

The chord progression in Tyler, The Creator’s “See You Again” can be characterized as a mixture of jazz harmonies and pop sensibilities. The verse progression features major and minor seventh chords, a few borrowed chords, and a prominent chromatic movement.

Chord progression analysis (including borrowed chords)
1. F#maj7 (I)
2. F#maj7/B (I6)
3. Fmaj7 (bImaj7 – borrowed chord)
4. G#m7 (iii7)
5. D7#5 (VI7#5 – borrowed chord)
6. F#maj7 (I)
7. F#maj7/B (I6)
8. Fmaj7 (bImaj7 – borrowed chord)
9. G#m7 (iii7)
10. D7#5 (VI7#5 – borrowed chord)

The chord progression starts with the tonic F#maj7 and moves through a first inversion of the same chord (F#maj7/B) before introducing borrowed chords (Fmaj7 and D7#5) from the parallel minor key, creating tension and color. The G#m7 is a diatonic iii7 chord, adding to the jazzy feel of the song.

Style Analysis

1. “I’ll Be Seeing You” by Billie Holiday
(Verse only)
– Fmaj7 (I)
– Gm7 (ii7)
– Gm7/C (ii7/IV)
– Am7 (iii7)
– Am7/D (iii7/VI)
– Dm7 (vi7)
– Dm7/G (vi7/ii)
– Gm7 (ii7)
– Gm7/C (ii7/IV)
– C7 (V7)
– Fmaj7 (I)

2. “Misty” by Erroll Garner (Verse only)
– Cmaj7 (I)
– Cmaj7/B (I6)
– Am7 (vi7)
– Am7/G (vi7/IV)
– Dm7 (ii7)
– Dm7/C (ii7/V)
– G7 (V7)
– Cmaj7 (I)

These examples capture some elements of Tyler, The Creator’s chord progression but vary in specific details. In both examples, the use of predominant seventh chords, chromaticism and borrowed chords can be observed, similarly highlighting the influences of jazz harmonies with pop sensibilities.

Chords in the Verse 1 section of See You Again by Tyler, The Creator are:

F#maj7, F#maj7/B, Fmaj7, G#m7, D7#5, F#maj7, F#maj7/B, Fmaj7, G#m7, D7#5