Weezer – The Good Life – Chorus
The Good Life < All Analyses
Chord Progression
B7, C, D, G, Em, Em, Am, D, D, G, Em, Em, Am, D, D, G, Em, Em, Am, D, D, G, Em
Chord Progression Analysis
B7 (V7/iii), C (IV), D (V), G (I), Em (vi), Em (vi), Am (ii), D (V), D (V), G (I), Em (vi), Em (vi), Am (ii), D (V), D (V), G (I), Em (vi), Em (vi), Am (ii), D (V), D (V), G (I), Em (vi)
Borrowed Chord:
`B7 (V7/iii)`
Similar Chord Progressions
1. Radiohead – “Creep”
Chorus: G (I), B7 (V7/iii), C (IV), Cm (iv)
2. Coldplay – “The Scientist”
Verse: Dm (ii), B♭ (IV), F (I), C (V)
Both examples showcase the use of chromatic chords and unconventional progressions, similar to Weezer’s “The Good Life” chorus. In “Creep,” the B7 is a borrowed chord (V7/iii) as well, while in “The Scientist,” the progression features a (ii-IV-I-V) pattern, which isn’t as common in popular music.
Musical Analysis
In this chorus, the predominant key is G major, with most chords belonging to the diatonic set. However, the B7 chord, the dominant seventh of E minor, is borrowed from the parallel minor key (G minor), which adds a chromatic element to the progression.
The song follows a common pattern in popular rock music; the chords mostly move by fourths (roots of the chords being a fourth apart). This pattern can be seen in multiple instances within the progression, such as D-G, G-Em, Am-D, and D-G.
Overall Analysis
The chorus of “The Good Life” by Weezer features a mixture of diatonic and non-diatonic chords, with a primary focus on the key of G major. The chord progression stands out as somewhat unconventional due to the inclusion of chromatic chords, which gives it an interesting character and emotion. Additionally, the repetition of certain chords emphasizes the harmonic structure and creates a sense of familiarity.
Style Analysis
Weezer is known for incorporating unconventional elements in their music and shifting from diatonic to non-diatonic chords. Their use of relatively simple chord progressions, combined with borrowed chords or chords from other keys, is a trademark, as seen in “The Good Life.” Furthermore, the band often employs repetition to create a sense of coherence, which is visible in the chorus of this song.
What are the chords in: Weezer – The Good Life – Chorus?
B7, C, D, G, Em, Em, Am, D, D, G, Em, Em, Am, D, D, G, Em, Em, Am, D, D, G, Em
