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Related Music Theory Alchemy

The interlude of Weezer’s “Island in the Sun” is in the key of G Major, and features a four-chord progression that repeats itself twice (Em-Am-D-G). The sequence follows a vi-ii-V-I progression, which is a very common progression in pop and rock music.

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The given chord progression is from the verse 3 of the song “The Good Life” by Weezer. The song is in the key of G major and features a mix of diatonic chords from the G major scale and a borrowed chord from the parallel minor (G minor).

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“This Masquerade” by George Benson is a jazz/R&B fusion piece with a smooth and laid-back feel. It features a slightly chromatic and sophisticated chord progression, complete with altered extensions and slash chords, resulting in a rich harmonic texture that is both soulful and intricate. The progression has some similarities to other jazz and R&B chord progressions used by artists such as Stevie Wonder, Donald Fagen (of Steely Dan), and Antonio Carlos Jobim.

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“Sorry Seems To Be The Hardest Word” is a song by Elton John written in the key of G major. However, the tonal center of this song fluctuates between G major and its relative minor, Em. Sensitive to the modality of the melody, Elton incorporates “color” via his diverse chord selections. The harmonic movement in this song is richly chromatic, creating a sense of tension and release that intensifies the melancholic aura of the lyrics.

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The Beatles’ “Something” is a soulful ballad from their 1969 album “Abbey Road.” It’s primarily composed in the key of C major, but features modulations to other keys throughout its duration. The harmony of this song is somewhat complicated, but still rooted in traditional practices. “Something” effectively uses borrowed chords—chords from parallel keys—to create a fresh and memorable sound.

Weezer – Island In The Sun – Intro

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Chord Progression

Em, Am, D, G, Em, Am, D, G, Em, Am, D, G, Em, Am, D, G

Chord Progression Analysis

E minor (vi), A minor (ii), D major (V), G major (I)

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Borrowed Chord: A minor (ii) from G parallel minor (G minor)
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Similar Chord Progressions

1. “No Surprises” by Radiohead:
D major (IV), B minor (ii), G major (I), A major (V)

2. “Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door” by Bob Dylan:
G major (I), D major (V), A minor (ii), C major (IV)

3. “Let It Be” by The Beatles:
C major (I), G major (V), A minor (ii), F major (IV)

Note that while the exact chords and their ordering may differ between these songs, they all share the I-ii-IV-V progression. This common pattern appears frequently in pop and rock music and is known for its pleasant and satisfying sound.

Musical Analysis

The chord progression starts with the E minor (vi), which has a moody, yet still hopeful sound as it leads to the borrowed A minor (ii) chord from the parallel G minor. This borrowed chord introduces a bit of tension while staying within the familiar territory of the key. The progression then moves to the D major (V) chord, which serves as the dominant and helps to build anticipation. Finally, the progression resolves to the G major (I) chord, which is the tonic and provides a sense of resolution and comfort.

Overall Analysis

“Island in the Sun” by Weezer is a popular song that features a simple and catchy chord progression. The intro progression creates a pleasant and comforting atmosphere, and it sets up the laid-back, summer vibe of the song. The chords are primarily diatonic to the key of G major, except for the borrowed chord from the parallel minor. The progression is quite common in pop and rock music, and it shares similarities with other famous songs.

Style Analysis

This chord progression is characteristic of Weezer’s style, which often consists of simple chord progressions combined with catchy melodies and emotive lyrics. It has a nostalgic and dreamy quality that fits well with the song’s theme of escapism and finding peace in a metaphorical island paradise. The use of the borrowed chord helps to add more depth and richness to the otherwise straightforward progression.

Chords in the Intro section of Island In The Sun by Weezer are:

Em, Am, D, G, Em, Am, D, G, Em, Am, D, G, Em, Am, D, G