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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.

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.

“Knights of Cydonia” by Muse features a harmonically straightforward chord progression within the rock style. This progression is primarily based in the key of E minor and centers around the Em, Bm, and A chords. Throughout the song, the driving rhythm, vocal melodies, and transitions between different sections contribute to its energetic and dramatic qualities.

“The song When Doves Cry” by Prince features a very distinctive chord progression in its chorus section. Technically the song is written in a minor key, but the progression tends to flow in a way that feels almost like a major key at times. This is a common characteristic of many Prince songs, signifying the unique and innovative style of the artist.

“Something I Can Never Have” by Nine Inch Nails is a song with a dark and moody atmosphere. The chord progression in both the verse and chorus of the song features certain borrowed chords and chromatic tones that give the piece this distinctive quality. The song seems to be in the key of C Major, but certain chords from the parallel minor key (C Minor) are used to create a sense of tension and emotional turmoil.

Tyler, The Creator – See You Again – Chorus

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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

F#maj7 (Imaj7) – F#maj7/B (Imaj7/5) – Fmaj7 (bImaj7) – G#m7 (iiø7) – D7#5 (bVI7) – F#maj7 (Imaj7) – F#maj7/B (Imaj7/5) – Fmaj7 (bImaj7) – G#m7 (iiø7) – D7#5 (bVI7)

“` Borrowed Chord: Fmaj7 (bImaj7) “`

Similar Chord Progressions

1. Stevie Wonder – “Overjoyed”
Chord Progression: Cmaj7 (Imaj7) – C#dim7 (iio7) – Dm7 (ii7) – G13 (V13) – Cmaj9 (Imaj9) – Dm9 (ii9) – G13sus (V13sus) – G13 (V13)

2. D’Angelo – “Untitled (How Does It Feel)”
Chord Progression: Amaj7 (Imaj7) – C#m7 (iii7) – Bm7 (ii7) – E9 (V9)

Both of these examples feature rich harmonic textures, smooth voice leading, and chromatic movement, which are similar characteristics found in the chord progression of “See You Again.” Additionally, they share a neo-soul and contemporary R&B sound, making them appropriate comparisons.

Musical Analysis

In this progression, we begin with the F#maj7 (Imaj7) chord, which establishes the tonal center. The F#maj7/B is an inversion of the Imaj7 chord and serves to create a smooth bass movement.

The first borrowed chord is Fmaj7 (bImaj7) from the parallel minor key (F# minor). This chromatic movement adds an unexpected twist and some tension to the progression.

Moving to G#m7 (iiø7) represents a return to diatonic harmony. The following chord, D7#5 (bVI7, an altered dominant), functions as a secondary dominant to the Imaj7, adding tension that resolves to the starting F#maj7 chord.

The second half of the progression repeats the same sequence, solidifying the harmonic pattern and providing a satisfying sense of resolution by the end.

Overall Analysis

The chord progression in the chorus of Tyler, The Creator’s “See You Again” exhibits a combination of diatonic and chromatic movements, with the use of borrowed chords and altered dominants that create tension and release. The song is in the key of F# major.

Style Analysis

Tyler, The Creator’s “See You Again” features a neo-soul and contemporary R&B sound, with lush voicings, smooth voice leading, and chromatic movement. The use of borrowed chords and altered dominants is a common aspect of jazz-influenced R&B and neo-soul music, which often experiment with unexpected harmonic choices.

Chords in the Chorus 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