Weezer – California Kids – Chorus 1
California Kids < All Analyses
Chord Progression
F, G, Am, E, E, F, G, F, F, G, F, G, Am, E, E, F, G, F
Chord Progression Analysis
F Major (I), G Major (V/iii), A Minor (iii), E Major (V/vi), E Major (V/vi), F Major (I), G Major (V/iii), F Major (I), F Major (I), G Major (V/iii), F Major (I), G Major (V/iii), A Minor (iii), E Major (V/vi), E Major (V/vi), F Major (I), G Major (V/iii), F Major (I)
Borrowed Chord: E Major (V/vi)
Similar Chord Progressions
1. Green Day – “Basket Case”
Chords: Bb Major (I), Eb Major (IV), G Major (V/iii), Cm Major (ii), E Major (V/vi)
2. The Beatles – “Here Comes the Sun”
Chords: D Major (I), G Major (IV), A Major (V), F#m Major (iii), E Major (V/vi), D Major (I)
In both examples, you can observe that the borrowed V/vi chord (E Major in both cases) is used to create the same tension and harmonic interest as found in the “California Kids” chorus. The chords also showcase a mix of major and minor tonalities, which contribute to the overall pop-rock sound.
Musical Analysis
The progression is in the key of F major, and it starts with a simple I-V/iii-iii motion before introducing the borrowed chord – E major (V/vi) – which adds some harmonic interest and tension. This E major chord is a secondary dominant, as it leads to the vi (A minor) chord, and it is borrowed from the parallel F harmonic minor scale. This combination of diatonic and borrowed chords adds color and ear-catching appeal to the progression.
The chords then cycle through various repetitions of the F Major and G Major chords, emphasizing the major tonality of the song before returning to the A minor and E major chords, re-establishing that harmonic interest and desire for resolution. The progression ends with the F Major (I) chord, providing a strong resolution to the overall chord sequence.
Overall Analysis
The chorus of “California Kids” by Weezer features an interesting mix of primarily diatonic chords, with some borrowed chords and chromaticism. The chord progression has a pop-rock feel, with uplifting major and minor chords, and the use of the E major chords adds tension and intrigue.
Style Analysis
The chord progression in “California Kids” can be seen as emblematic of Weezer’s style. The pop-rock sensibilities come with their usage of catchy, diatonic chords with added tension from borrowed and secondary dominant chords. The E major chord, in particular, gives the song a distinctive flair and adds a bittersweet feel in the context of the F major key.
What are the chords in: Weezer – California Kids – Chorus 1?
F, G, Am, E, E, F, G, F, F, G, F, G, Am, E, E, F, G, F
