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Related Music Theory Alchemy

The chorus maintains a feeling of resolution and tension by alternating between the IV (F major) and V (G major) chords, while the vi (A minor) to V/vi (E major) progression provides a smooth transition back to the IV chord (F major).

In terms of borrowed chords, the E Major is a borrowed chord.
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E major (V/vi)
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The chord progression of the Verse 3 in the song “California Kids” by Weezer features a blend of diatonic and chromatic chords in the key of C major, exhibiting a classic pop-rock feel with some variations in the chord structure. The progression also showcases the use of chromatic bass motion to add harmonic interest.

“Today” by The Smashing Pumpkins is composed in the key of E minor. The song has quite a simple structure and harmony with a strong emphasis on the I-IV-V (D-G-A in E minor key) chord progression which is one of the most common patterns in popular music. This I-IV-V progression vests the song with its harmonic backbone and creates a strong, wide-open sonic canvas.

“Here Comes The Sun” is written by George Harrison from The Beatles and it is a key example of the band’s flirtation with what is commonly referred to as Mixolydian mode. The piece showcases their skillful blending of folk idioms with contemporary pop sensibilities.

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“1979” by The Smashing Pumpkins is a classic alternative rock song that cleverly uses uncommon, sophisticated chords to evoke an emotional, melancholic atmosphere.

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Weezer – California Kids – Chorus 3

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Chord Progression

F, G, Am, E, F, G, F, F, G, F, G, Am, E, F, G, F, F, G, F, G, F, F, G, F

Chord Progression Analysis

F Major (I) – G Major (V/ii) – A minor (ii) – E Major (V/vi) – F Major (I) – G Major (V/ii) – F Major (I) – F Major (I)
G Major (V/ii) – F Major (I) – G Major (V/ii) – A minor (ii) – E Major (V/vi) – F Major (I) – G Major (V/ii) – F Major (I)
F Major (I) – G Major (V/ii) – F Major (I) – G Major (V/ii) – F Major (I) – F Major (I) – G Major (V/ii) – F Major (I)

Wherein
“`E Major (V/vi)“` is a borrowed chord.

Similar Chord Progressions

1. Toto – Africa
Chord Progression: B Major (I) – G#m (vi) – C# minor (ii) – E Major (IV) – F# Major (V) – F# Major (V) – E Major (IV) – E Major (IV)
2. The Beatles – Let It Be
Chord Progression: C Major (I) – G Major (V) – A minor (vi) – F Major (IV) – C Major (I) – G Major (V) – F Major (IV) – C Major (I)

In both examples, the chord progressions follow a similar pattern as found in California Kids, featuring a predominant (ii or vi) and dominant (IV or V) chord sequence that helps create movement and tension in the song.

Musical Analysis

The progression starts and ends with the tonic, F Major, providing a sense of resolution and stability. The A minor (ii) chord acts as a predominant, creating movement towards the E Major chord, which is a secondary dominant (V/vi) that resolves to A minor in a deceptive manner instead of the expected D minor (vi). This creates a more interesting sound and grabs the listeners’ attention. The G Major chord, functioning as a V/ii creates tension, which helps propel the song forward.

Overall Analysis

The chord progression of the chorus of California Kids by Weezer displays a mixture of diatonic and borrowed chords in the key of F Major. The progression has a common pop-rock feel with some chromatic harmonic elements, bringing a more interesting and engaging effect to the listener.

Style Analysis

California Kids is a pop-rock song that features a mixture of diatonic and borrowed chords, giving it a unique yet familiar sound. The progression’s repetitiveness is common in pop music and can help make the song catchy and easy to remember. The E Major chord, a borrowed chord, adds a touch of chromaticism, which is often found in rock music, giving it an edge over a purely diatonic progression.

Chords in the Chorus 3 section of California Kids by Weezer are:

F, G, Am, E, F, G, F, F, G, F, G, Am, E, F, G, F, F, G, F, G, F, F, G, F