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Related Music Theory Alchemy

The given chord progression is the Pre-Chorus section of “After The Storm” by Kali Uchis. The chords in this progression are predominantly built on the 1st and 2nd degrees of the minor scale. The recurring use of the Eaug chord injects an interesting and stylish twist into the music.

The chord progression in Verse 2 of Kali Uchis’s “After The Storm” is a mix of diatonic and chromatic chords that create an interesting neo-soul groove. The harmony is primarily based on G# minor, featuring the G#m7 and A#m7 as primary chords, and the D#aug chord adds tension and release within the progression. Additionally, the use of the D#aug chord acts as a chromatic mediant between G#m7 and A#m7.

“Boulevard of Broken Dreams” by Green Day, released in 2004, is an alt-rock anthem that largely follows a 4-chord progression throughout the song. The key signature of the song is E minor (derived from the root chord), and essentially all chords used in the song are diatonic, meaning they are derived from the scales of the key. The chorus shifts to a progression in C Major. However, it returns to E minor at the end.

The song, “Somebody to Love” by Queen, utilizes the classic pop/rock harmonic structure while incorporating aspects of blues and gospel music. The harmonic progression is structured around common chords found in the key of G major. However, the way these chords are ordered and arranged is unconventional and adds depth to the song. It reflects the band’s interest in pushing the boundaries of the traditional harmonic structure common in pop music of that time. Queen is known for their innovative use of harmony, which they certainly showcase in this song.

Vance Joy’s “Riptide” is a remarkably simple yet highly effective song written in the key of C Major. The song follows a repetitive I-vi-IV chord progression, which is only varied in the bridge where a minor seventh chord introduces tension before leading back to the song’s major tonality.

Kali Uchis – After The Storm – Chorus

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Chord Progression

Am7, Bm7, Eaug, Am7, Bm7, Eaug, Am7, Bm7, Eaug, Am7, Bm7, Eaug

Chord Progression Analysis

“`
– Am7 (i7)
– Bm7 (ii7)
– Eaug (V+)
– Am7 (i7)
– Bm7 (ii7)
– Eaug (V+)
– Am7 (i7)
– Bm7 (ii7)
– Eaug (V+)
– Am7 (i7)
– Bm7 (ii7)
– Eaug (V+)
“`

Similar Chord Progressions

1. Erykah Badu – “On & On”
“`
Am7 (i7)
Bm7 (ii7)
Gmaj7 (VII)
Dmaj7 (IVmaj7)
“`

2. D’Angelo – “Brown Sugar”
“`
Am7 (i7)
E7 (V7)
Dm7 (iv7)
Am7 (i7)
E7 (V7)
Dm7 (iv7)
D7 (IV7)
“`

3. Robert Glasper – “Afro Blue”
“`
Am7 (i7)
E7(#9) (V7#9)
Bmin7(b5) (IIø7)
E7(b13) (V7b13)
“`

While the exact chord progression in “After The Storm” may not be mirrored in these examples, all of the songs mentioned above make use of minor seventh chords and interesting harmonic choices. Each progression showcases the influence of jazz, R&B, and soul in their respective styles.

Musical Analysis

The progression begins with a series of minor seventh chords (Am7 and Bm7) which give the music a jazzy, R&B sound. The Eaug chord, which serves as a dominant V+ chord, creates tension before resolving back to the Am7 chord, giving the progression a sense of forward momentum and instability. The repetition of this progression helps to establish a hypnotic and dreamy quality to the music.

Overall Analysis

The chord progression in the chorus of Kali Uchis’ “After The Storm” features a repeating progression of Am7, Bm7, and Eaug that occurs three times, with slight variations in harmony and tonality. It is a unique and interesting progression that creates tension through the use of both minor 7th and augmented chords. The overall style evokes a dreamy, jazzy atmosphere with elements of R&B and soul.

Style Analysis

Kali Uchis’ “After The Storm” is rooted in the contemporary R&B and neo-soul genres, while also incorporating elements of jazz harmony and Latin music. The use of minor seventh chords in the progression is a characteristic of these styles, and the inclusion of the Eaug chord adds an unexpected twist to the harmony, giving the song its unique sound.

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

Am7, Bm7, Eaug, Am7, Bm7, Eaug, Am7, Bm7, Eaug, Am7, Bm7, Eaug