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Related Music Theory Alchemy

“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.

The chord progression in Beck’s “Nobody’s Fault But My Own” from Verse 1 features a mix of diatonic and borrowed chords, primarily from the D Major scale but also incorporating chords from the parallel minor and other related keys. This gives the progression a unique and fresh sound that sets it apart from more traditional progressions. Notably, there are several pedal points using the D root throughout the progression, which helps maintain a sense of tonal center.

** The Beatles are well known for their creative and unusual use of chords and harmonies. In “Lucy in The Sky With Diamonds”, there is a clear example of their innovative harmonic vocabulary. They employ a variety of common, borrowed, and chromatic mediant chords to create a remarkable soundscape that complements the psychedelic theme of the song.

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The piece “3’s and 7’s” by Queens of The Stone Age illustrates a fascinating blend of minor and major tonality, accented dissonances, and unexpected harmonic turns, which is characteristic of the band’s stoner rock and alternative metal style. The verse 2 chord progression is in A# minor and it sticks to a fairly repetitive three-chord progression of A#m – G# – F.

“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.

Beck – Sexx Laws – Verse 2

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Chord Progression

B, G#, B, G#, B, G#, A, F#

Chord Progression Analysis

B Major (I), G# Major (VI), B Major (I), G# Major (VI), B Major (I), G# Major (VI), A Major (II), F# Major (V)

“`Borrowed Chords: G# Major (bVI)“`

Similar Chord Progressions

1. “Superstition” by Stevie Wonder: Eb min7 (i), Bb7 (V), Ab min7 (bVI), Eb min7 (i)

2. “Karma Police” by Radiohead: A min (i), E min (v), G (bVII), D maj (IV), G maj (bVII), C maj (III)

These songs also utilize non-diatonic chords and borrowed chords, giving them a unique harmonic character that sets them apart from standard progressions in popular music.

Musical Analysis

The chord progression starts with the B Major tonic chord (I), which establishes a clear sense of tonality. Next, the G# Major chord is a borrowed chord (bVI) from the parallel minor key (B minor). This gives a slightly unexpected twist and a touch of darkness to the harmonic movement. The alternation between B Major and G# Major creates a sense of tension and release throughout the verse.

The movement to A Major (II) brings a little bit of surprise as it is not a typical diatonic chord in the key of B Major. This non-diatonic chord adds more interest and color to the progression. Finally, the progression resolves back to F# Major (V), which is the dominant chord and strengthens the tonality in the key of B Major.

Overall Analysis

The given chord progression is from Beck’s song “Sexx Laws” and runs as follows: B, G#, B, G#, B, G#, A, F#. This progression features chords mainly from the B Major key, but includes borrowed chords from the parallel minor key as well. The harmonic movement showcases Beck’s interesting approach to songwriting and shows some influence from the soul and funk genres.

Style Analysis

Beck’s use of borrowed chords and non-diatonic harmony in “Sexx Laws” reflects his diverse musical influences, especially from soul and funk genres. The chord progression is a departure from standard pop progressions, showcasing his unique songwriting style. Beck is known for experimenting with various musical styles, and the harmonies in “Sexx Laws” are a testament to his eclectic approach.

Chords in the Verse 2 section of Sexx Laws by Beck are:

B, G#, B, G#, B, G#, A, F#