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Related Music Theory Alchemy

The chord progression in the chorus of “Lost Cause” by Beck showcases a simple yet effective pattern utilizing major chords and a dominant seventh chord, which creates tension and resolution throughout the progression. The song is in C major, and the chords predominantly follow the diatonic harmony of the key. The style is reminiscent of folk and alternative rock, with the harmony playing a significant role in evoking a sense of melancholy in the listener.

“Sexx Laws” by Beck is a unique and interesting piece that combines elements of various musical styles including funk, rock, and pop. The chord progression found in Verse 3 is quite simple yet effective, creating a sense of tension and release.

“Castles Made of Sand” by Jimi Hendrix is a psychedelic rock song that features a unique and colorful chord progression, blending major and minor tonalities in a way that creates tension and a sense of longing. The verse consists of a 12-chord progression that builds upon the foundation of the major key of C, even though it starts with the IV chord (F), which contributes to the song’s unusual character. The progression includes borrowed chords from the parallel minor and elements specific to Hendrix’s own style, making it a remarkable piece in terms of its harmonic complexity and eclecticism.

“Hey Joe” is a famous song by Jimi Hendrix, which features a simple yet very effective chord progression throughout its verses. It has a five-chord progression, which is C, G, D, A, and E. This progression creates a strong and recognizable flow, thus contributing to the song’s iconic status.

The chord progression in Verse 2 of Radiohead’s “All I Need” is a relatively simple and straightforward progression featuring chords from the key of C major. The progression revolves around the I, iii, and V chords (C, Em, and G), providing a tonal base that’s consistent and easy to follow. Radiohead’s use of repetition and minimalism in this progression contributes to an emotional atmosphere and allows listeners to focus on the lyrics and other musical elements.

Beck – Lost Cause – Verse 2

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Chord Progression

F, C, C/B, F, C, C/B, F, C, C/B, Am, E7, F, C, C/B, F, C, C/B, F, C, C/B, Am, E7

Chord Progression Analysis

F major (I) – C major (V) – C major/B (V6) – F major (I) – C major (V) – C major/B (V6) – F major (I) – C major (V) – C major/B (V6) – A minor (vi) – E7 (V7/vi) – F major (I) – C major (V) – C major/B (V6) – F major (I) – C major (V) – C major/B (V6) – F major (I) – C major (V) – C major/B (V6) – A minor (vi) – E7 (V7/vi)

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E7 (V7/vi) is a borrowed chord.
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Similar Chord Progressions

1. Simon & Garfunkel – “The Boxer”

G major (I) – A minor (ii) – C major (IV) – G major (I) – C major (IV) – G major/B (I6) – A minor (ii) – C major(IV)

2. Oasis – “Wonderwall”

F# minor (i) – A major (III) – E major (VII) – B major (IV) – D major (VI) – A major (III) – E major (VII) – B major (IV)

3. Tracy Chapman – “Fast Car”

C major (I) – G major (V) – E minor (iii) – F major (IV) – C major (I) – G major (V) – F major (IV) – C major (I)

Musical Analysis

The chord progression predominantly alternates between F major and C major, providing a stable foundation. The C major/B adds a touch of tension and interest with its first inversion while maintaining the emphasis on C major. The chord progression deviates from this pattern with A minor and the borrowed E7 chord, creating a momentary sense of anticipation before resolving back to F major. The E7 chord is borrowed from the parallel minor (F minor), acting as a secondary dominant chord to create a stronger pull towards the A minor chord.

Overall Analysis

“Lost Cause” by Beck from the album “Sea Change” showcases a melancholic and heartfelt mood with a slow tempo, exuding a sense of introspection and vulnerability. The song can be described as a folk-rock ballad with subtle touches of country and indie rock.

Style Analysis

This chord progression is representative of Beck’s melancholic folk-rock style. It is characterized by simple but expressive melodies and harmonies, with a strong focus on storytelling and emotion. Guitar and acoustic instrumentation are used prominently in this style, imbuing the piece with an organic quality.

Chords in the Verse 2 section of Lost Cause by Beck are:

F, C, C/B, F, C, C/B, F, C, C/B, Am, E7, F, C, C/B, F, C, C/B, F, C, C/B, Am, E7