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Related Music Theory Alchemy

The chorus of “Hate This And I’ll Love You” by Muse features a highly chromatic and non-diatonic chord progression, with a myriad of borrowed chords and some distinctive rock sound. The key within which the progression is based seems to shift between E minor and B minor, with a mixture of Major and minor chords throughout.

“Feeling Good” by Muse is a cover of the song originally written by Anthony Newley and Leslie Bricusse for the 1964 musical “The Roar of the Greasepaint – The Smell of the Crowd”. Muse’s version is characterized by its distinct blend of jazz, rock, and pop influences, with strong orchestration and stylistically unique elements that give the song a modern edge while still paying homage to its classic roots.

“Guilty as Sin?” by Taylor Swift uses a chord progression in the verse that reflects a more nuanced and reflective approach, suitable for a song with a contemplative or emotive theme. The interplay between minor and major seventh chords creates a lush, complex sound that elevates the song’s introspective and somewhat moody lyrical content.

The song, “As Tears Go By” by The Rolling Stones, is primarily in the key of G major. Its chord progression contains elements of classic pop songwriting, particularly from the 1960s, featuring major and minor chords, functional harmony, and a few borrowed chords. The verse has a repeating chord sequence that eventually concludes with a resolution to the tonic chord.

“God Only Knows” by The Beach Boys showcases the artistic depth and compositional craft of Brian Wilson, the band’s primary songwriter. The song utilizes a complex chord progression and key changes that are unconventional for pop music of its time. The chord progression creates a sense of constant mood transitions, similar to arias in Romantic era music.

Muse – Hate This And Ill Love You – Verse

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Chord Progression

A, Gm, D/F#, A, Gm, D, A, Gm, D/F#, A, Gm, D/F#

Chord Progression Analysis

The progression starts with the tonic chord A major, establishing the key of the piece. It then moves to the borrowed chord, Gm, which creates contrast and adds tension to the harmonic structure. The D/F# chord acts as a secondary dominant (IV/V), leading back to the tonic A major. The repetition of these chords with a few variations throughout the verse generates an interesting mix of stability and tension, and the frequent use of the borrowed Gm chord results in a bitonal character.

Similar Chord Progressions

Musical Analysis

Muse’s unique chord progression is a perfect example of their diverse influences, which range from classical music to rock and electronica. The combination of diatonic and borrowed chords is a distinctive trait found in much of their music. The structure highlights the tension created by contrasting major and minor harmonies, which is a common theme in their music – often reflecting the dramatic and emotionally charged lyrics.

Overall Analysis

The chord progression from Muse’s “Hate This And I’ll Love You” displays a mix of diatonic and borrowed chords from the parallel minor. The progression is in the key of A major and shows an unconventional use of chords that gives the song its unique sound. It also showcases certain characteristics of Muse’s music style that includes complex chord progressions and frequent changes between major and minor harmonies.

Chord Progression Analysis and Roman Numerals:

A ('I'), Gm ('bVII'), D/F# ('IV/V'), A ('I'),
Gm ('bVII'), D ('IV'), A ('I'), Gm ('bVII'),
D/F# ('IV/V'), A ('I'), Gm ('bVII'), D/F# ('IV/V')

The borrowed chord in this progression is Gm, taken from the parallel minor, A minor:
`Gm (‘bVII’)`

Style Analysis

1. Radiohead – Karma Police

Am ('i'), G ('♭VII'), Em ('v'), Am ('i'),
F ('♭VI'), Em ('v'), G ('♭VII'),

2. The Beatles – Something

C ('I'), Cmaj7 ('IM7'), C7 ('I7'), F ('IV'),
D ('V'), G ('bVII'), Am ('vi'), Am7/G ('vi7/♭VII')

These songs use similar borrowing techniques from parallel keys, and their chord progressions feature a rich harmonic palette with continuous harmonic shifts that create an intriguing listening experience.

Chords in the Verse section of Hate This And Ill Love You by Muse are:

A, Gm, D/F#, A, Gm, D, A, Gm, D/F#, A, Gm, D/F#