Search

Related Music Theory Alchemy

The chord progression in the hook of Beck’s “Heart Is A Drum” is in the key of C major and follows a strong diatonic harmonic structure, with the exception of the Dm7, which acts as a borrowed chord from the parallel minor (C minor). The progression exudes a feeling of longing and nostalgia, typical of many popular songs in the indie-folk genre.

The chord progression in the chorus of Beck’s “Lord Only Knows” is in the key of B Major and features some chromaticism and borrowed chords that give it a unique and somewhat unexpected sound. The chords move predominantly in fourths and fifths. The nature of the progression is reminiscent of rock and folk music, but Beck’s quirky and stylistic approach also evokes an alternative feel.

**

“Zombie” by The Cranberries features a relatively commonly used chord progression in pop/rock music, often referred to as a ‘vi-IV-I-V’ progression. This chord progression, in this particular case, is in the key of G Major and is made up of four chords: Em, C, G, and D/F#.

**

“Can’t Buy Me Love” is a song in C Major. The Beatles were renowned for their use of a variety of chord progressions, and this song certainly lives up to that reputation. Although the progression in the verse primarily consists of the chords ‘C7’, ‘F7’, and ‘C’, it’s the way they are harmonically linked that makes it really interesting.

The song “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me” by Elton John is brilliantly harmonized, showcasing the great musical arrangement skills of John at his best. Primarily, the song is based in the key of C Major and uses a variety of moving bass lines over mostly diatonic chords in the verses and choruses. There are some key modulations and borrowed chords that give the harmony a rich and complex quality which sets it apart from many contemporary pop songs.

Verse

Beck – Heart Is A Drum – Verse 1

Add To Favorites Remove From Favorites

< All Analyses

Chord Progression

C, Dm7, C, C, Dm7, C

Chord Progression Analysis

C (I) – Dm7 (ii7) – C (I) – C (I) – Dm7 (ii7) – C (I)

Similar Chord Progressions

1. Bob Dylan – “Don’t Think Twice, It’s All Right”
Chord Progression: C (I) – G (V) – Am (vi) – C (I) – D7/F# (V7/ii) – G (V) – G7 (V7)

2. Nick Drake – “Northern Sky”
Chord Progression: C (I) – E7 (III7) – Am7 (vi7) – C/G (I) – Fmaj7 (IVmaj7) – G (V)

3. José González – “Heartbeats”
Chord Progression: C (I) – E (III) – Am (vi) – Fmaj7 (IVmaj7) – G (V) – C (I)

While none of these progressions are identical to that of “Heart Is A Drum,” they all demonstrate a similar inclination for simplicity and emotion, by blending the stability of the diatonic chords with subtle harmonic twists that add character and depth to the music.

Musical Analysis

The simple, repetitive chord progression effectively communicates an introspective, pensive mood that is consistent with the song’s theme. Alternating between the tonic and subdominant chords in this way creates a sense of stability, as the movement between these chords is neither driven by the strong dominant-tonic relationship, nor surprising with any borrowed chords or dramatic modulations. The use of a minor seventh chord—a more emotionally complex sound—adds depth to the subdominant harmony and contrasts subtly with the straightforward major triad on the other chords.

Overall Analysis

“Heart Is A Drum” by Beck is a simple, yet emotional and effective piece, written in the key of C major. The chord progression of the verse revolves around the tonic (C) and the subdominant (Dm7), resulting in a gentle, down-to-earth feel, characteristic of Beck’s folk and alternative music influences.

Style Analysis

This chord progression reflects Beck’s signature blend of styles, drawing from folk, alternative, and even a hint of gospel harmony, with the ii7 chord evoking a gentle soulfulness. The minimalist and reflective nature of this progression is consistent with the introspective lyrical content of the song, and the simplicity of the harmonic structure allows for a more prominent focus on the melody and lyrics.

Chords in the Verse 1 section of Heart Is A Drum by Beck are:

C, Dm7, C, C, Dm7, C