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Related Music Theory Alchemy

The chord progression of “Say Goodbye” by Beck uses a combination of diatonic and borrowed chords within the key of G major. The verse features a total of 8 chords: G major, A# major, A minor, and C major. The use of a borrowed chord (A# major) adds an interesting twist to the progression and provides a unique color to the harmony.

The provided chord progression is quite simple, with a single chord (F) repeated four times. This type of progression creates a static or stable feel, with no harmonic tension to resolve. This chord progression alone isn’t enough to give a complete musical analysis, as it’s quite minimalistic, and it’s necessary to evaluate the progression in the context of the entire song. However, I can still offer some thoughts on the progression’s possible function, style notes, and similar chord progressions.

“I Am The Walrus” is a composition by The Beatles in which the song varies in key and progressive elements, with fascinating uses of borrowed chords from parallel modes and chromatic bass motion. The melody resides predominantly within a pentatonic framework, frequently rotating around subversions. The Bridge section beautifully showcases Beatles’ experimentation with descending chord progression built around chromatic movement.

Nine Inch Nails’ “Closer” is a unique blend of industrial rock, electronica, and alternative styles that has propelled the song to prominence as one of the band’s most famous and frequently played tracks. The song is in the key of E major and features a recurring chord progression throughout its various sections.

The given chord progression consists of five unique chords: Am, D, G, Em, and D repeated in a structured pattern. The progression is in the key of G major, with one borrowed chord. This chord progression is a good example of Weezer’s mix of rock and pop styles, displaying a strong use of diatonic harmony with a touch of chromaticism.

Beck – Say Goodbye – Bridge

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Chord Progression

D, C

Chord Progression Analysis

D Major (I) – C Major (bVII)

Borrowed chord:
`C Major (bVII)`

Similar Chord Progressions

1. Neil Young – “Down by the River”
Chord Progression:
E Minor (i) – D Major (bVII)

2. The Beatles – “Hey Jude”
Chord Progression (during the outro section):
F Major (I) – E-flat Major (bVII)

3. Radiohead – “Karma Police”
Chord progression (during the chorus):
G Major (I) – F Major (bVII)

These songs feature a similar bVII movement, which contributes to their unique and memorable nature.

Musical Analysis

The bridge oscillates between the D Major and C Major chords. The use of the flattened seventh chord (C Major) in the key of D Major adds a touch of unexpectedness and intrigue, making the progression engaging. This movement between the tonic and the borrowed chord from the mixolydian mode makes the progression sound unique and captivating.

Overall Analysis

The bridge of “Say Goodbye” by Beck features a simple two-chord progression. However, this simplicity allows space for an interesting interplay between melody and harmony while still evoking strong emotions. Despite being simple, the progression still manages to create a sense of tension and resolution.

Style Analysis

Beck is known for blending various styles of music, such as folk, rock, and electronica. The choice of this simple yet unexpected chord progression contributes to his signature eclecticism. The use of the bVII chord in a major key has a hint of modal mixture, adding an element of surprise as well as lending it a distinct “Beck” quality. It’s worth noting that this chord progression can be often found in various genres, particularly in rock, alternative music, and indie.

Chords in the Bridge section of Say Goodbye by Beck are:

D, C