Music Theory Alchemy

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The chord progression in Muse’s “Endlessly” from Verse 2 is a mix of diatonic chords and a borrowed chord from the parallel major key. The progression has a melancholic feel, utilizing suspended chords to create tension and release. The use of both minor and major chords provides a balanced sound, giving the piece its unique character.

The verse of “Megalomania” by Muse is characterized by distinctive harmonic progressions, dynamic contrasts, and notable melodic lines that are typical of the band’s alternative rock style. Throughout this verse, Muse uses common harmonic devices such as secondary dominants, diatonic and chromatic mediants, borrowed chords from parallel keys, and deceptive cadences to create a sense of tension and forward momentum.

The verse of “All I Need” by Radiohead features a simple chord progression consisting of three main chords: C, Em, and G. It alternates between these three chords for most of the progression, with some occasional repetition of the C chord. This progression provides a consistent harmonic foundation for the vocal melody and sets a mostly stable and melancholic mood.

“Viva La Vida” by Coldplay is a pop song that sits primarily in the key of G major, featuring four common chords: C Major, D Major, G Major, and E minor. The song’s simplicity lies in the consistent use of these chords, which creates a consistent harmony throughout the song.

The chord progression of Verse 1 from Radiohead’s “Motion Picture Soundtrack” features a fairly simple harmony with some unique embellishments. The common use of suspended chords and added extensions give the progression its distinctive atmosphere and modern sound.

Muse – Endlessly – Verse 1

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Chord Progression

Asus4, Am, Asus4, Am, Bm, E7, Asus4, Am, Asus4, Am, Bm, E7

Chord Progression Analysis

`Asus4 (IVsus4) – Am (IVm) – Asus4 (IVsus4) – Am (IVm) – Bm (v) – E7 (I7) – Asus4 (IVsus4) – Am (IVm) – Asus4 (IVsus4) – Am (IVm) – Bm (v) – E7 (I7)`

_Borrowed Chords:_
`None`

Similar Chord Progressions

Though unique to Muse, the progression does bear some similarities to other works in terms of specific aspects of the progression itself.

1. Radiohead – “Exit Music (For a Film)”:
`Am (i) – E (V) – Bm (iv) – D (VI) – G (IX) – E (V) – Am (i)`

2. Coldplay – “Warning Sign”:
`Asus2 (IVsus2) – Amaj7 (IVmaj7) – E (I) – Asus2 (IVsus2) – Amaj7 (IVmaj7) – G#m (iii) – A (IV)`

These examples share some aspects of Muse’s chord progression, such as the use of suspended chords, shifting from minor to major chords, and interweaving tension and resolution. However, the overall progression in “Endlessly” still remains distinctive amongst similar artists.

Musical Analysis

The consistent alternation between the Asus4 and Am chords at the beginning of the progression creates a sense of tension and suspension through the raised 4th (which makes the Asus4), in contrast to the more stable Am chord. The subsequent movement from Am to Bm and later to E7 provides tension and resolution. The E7 resolves back to Am, which occurs at the beginning of the verse, effectively tying the progression together as a cyclical pattern.

Overall Analysis

The song in question, “Endlessly” by Muse, is a reflective and emotional piece, featuring a fairly unique chord progression. The verse’s chord progression is not commonly heard in popular music, giving it a distinct sound that sets it apart from other songs. The use of suspended chords, the shift from Am to Bm, and the resolution to the E7 chord give the piece a floating, ethereal feel.

Style Analysis

The chord progression’s dreamlike sound and suspended chords create a certain atmosphere that is characteristic of the style we see in Muse’s music, especially in their romantic, introspective songs. In general, Muse is known for their experimental approach to musical styles and chord progressions, and “Endlessly” is no exception.

Chords in the Verse 1 section of Endlessly by Muse are:

Asus4, Am, Asus4, Am, Bm, E7, Asus4, Am, Asus4, Am, Bm, E7