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The chord progression in the outro of “After The Storm” by Kali Uchis is a relatively simple and concise one, having just three chords: G#m7, A#m7, and D#aug. Considering that the key of this song is G# minor, the progression makes use of diatonic and non-diatonic chords. Moreover, incorporating an augmented chord lends a feeling of tension and anticipation that makes the outro stand out.

The chord progression in Kali Uchis’ “Loner” features a mix of major, minor, and augmented chords, which contributes to the song’s unique sound and emotional depth. The progression has an unconventional and intriguing quality, while still maintaining a sense of harmonic coherence.

“Yes I’m Changing” by Tame Impala uses a repetitive chord progression throughout the majority of the song, alternating primarily between the chords C, Csus2, Cadd9, Am, F, and G. This pattern is characterized by constant resolution with the tonic of the key, C Major. However, the progression occasionally diverges from the typical diatonic pattern by introducing a G Major chord, which is a V chord in the C Major scale.

The Beatles’ “Something” is a soulful ballad from their 1969 album “Abbey Road.” It’s primarily composed in the key of C major, but features modulations to other keys throughout its duration. The harmony of this song is somewhat complicated, but still rooted in traditional practices. “Something” effectively uses borrowed chords—chords from parallel keys—to create a fresh and memorable sound.

“This Masquerade” by George Benson is a jazz/R&B fusion piece with a smooth and laid-back feel. It features a slightly chromatic and sophisticated chord progression, complete with altered extensions and slash chords, resulting in a rich harmonic texture that is both soulful and intricate. The progression has some similarities to other jazz and R&B chord progressions used by artists such as Stevie Wonder, Donald Fagen (of Steely Dan), and Antonio Carlos Jobim.

Kali Uchis – After The Storm – Intro

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Chord Progression

Am7, Bm7, Eaug, Am7, Bm7, Eaug

Chord Progression Analysis

“`
Am7 (vi7)
Bm7 (vii7/ii)
Eaug (V+ of ii)
Am7 (vi7)
Bm7 (vii7/ii)
Eaug (V+ of ii)
“`

Similar Chord Progressions

1. Stevie Wonder – “Ribbon in the Sky”
Chord progression:
“`
Em7 (ii7)
F#m7 (iii7)
B7 (V7/IV)
Em7 (ii7)
F#m7 (iii7)
B7 (V7/IV)
“`

2. D’Angelo – “Untitled (How Does It Feel)”
Chord progression:
“`
Bbmaj7 (I)
Am7 (vii7)
D7 (V/ii)
Gm7 (ii7)
C7 (V7)
Fmaj7 (IV)
Fm7 (iv7)
Bb7 (V7)
“`

Musical Analysis

The intro starts with an Am7 chord, which functions as the vi7 in the key of C Major. Following that, we have a Bm7 chord, which is a borrowed chord, functioning as a secondary dominant’s (E7) subdominant chord (vii7/ii) that wants to resolve to E7, but instead we find an Eaug chord. This chord can be seen as V+ of ii, which augments the 5th of the E chord, creating tension and a sense of anticipation. The progression then repeats itself.

Am7 provides a smooth, relaxed atmosphere as it is part of the diatonic chords in C major. The Bm7 and Eaug chords introduce chromaticism and a sense of tension, which adds interest to the harmony. This tension resolves back to Am7, providing a sense of balance in the progression.

Overall Analysis

The chord progression in the intro of “After the Storm” by Kali Uchis showcases a mix of diatonic and chromatic movements, borrowing elements from jazz and R&B. The use of 7th chords and an augmented chord suggests a harmonically rich and colorful tonality, creating an intriguing atmosphere that captures the listener’s attention.

Style Analysis

This progression showcases elements of jazz and R&B, as mentioned earlier. The use of 7th chords is common in both styles, with jazz being known for complex harmonies and extended chords, and R&B sometimes borrowing from jazz to spice up its harmony. The chromatic movement and the borrowed chords enhance the overall richness of the harmony, which is characteristic of these two styles.

Chords in the Intro section of After The Storm by Kali Uchis are:

Am7, Bm7, Eaug, Am7, Bm7, Eaug