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Related Music Theory Alchemy

The chord progression throughout this verse of Beck’s “Lost Cause” is predominantly in the key of F Major with some chords from its relative minor (D minor). The use of borrowed chords adds variety and color to the progression, and the alternation between F major and C major chords creates a strong sense of tonality and grounding in the key of F Major. The use of Am and E7 chords provides a brief tension and leaning toward the parallel key of F minor before resolving back to the original key. This adds interest and complexity to the otherwise straightforward progression.

The chord progression in the outro of Beck’s “Say Goodbye” is an interesting combination of diatonic and chromatic elements. The use of the borrowed chord A# major in the mostly diatonic setting adds an unexpected twist to the progression, creating a unique and expressive harmonic landscape.

“Rocket Man” by Elton John, released in 1972, is a melodic and harmonically sophisticated example of his pop/rock style. The piece is in the key of G, and the chord progression of Verse 2 introduces some harmonies that exploit john’s expertise in using extended and altered chords, which lend colorfulness and a feel of departure and return. The use of slash chords like G/B and D/F# creates a descending bass line that is very characteristic of pop and rock music, creating a sense of melodic movement within the chords themselves. Verse 2 is navigated skillfully between simplistic and complex harmonies.

“Heart Is A Drum” by Beck, from the album Morning Phase (2014), features a simple but effective chord progression in the key of C major. This song can be classified as alternative folk rock, and the harmonies used in the chord progression are quite common in this genre, as well as popular music in general. The progression creates a sense of nostalgia and emotional resonance, elevated by Beck’s lyricism and vocal delivery.

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“Viva la Vida” mostly utilizes a four-chord progression thorough the song which is fairly common in popular music. The verse we are focusing on replicating the verse goes like this: C – D – G – Em. The chord progressions are pretty simple, catchy and give the song an uplifting feel.

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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