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Related Music Theory Alchemy

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.

The chord progression in Verse 3 of Beck’s “Say Goodbye” features an interesting mixture of diatonic and chromatic chords with noticeable tonal shifts. The progression is G – A# – Am – C – G – A# – Am – C, with an emphasis on the G major key. This progression conveys an expressive and slightly unstable mood, creating tension and release with the inclusion of borrowed and non-diatonic chords.

“Hey You” by Pink Floyd is a progressive rock song from the concept album “The Wall.” The song is characterized by its atmospheric sound created through a combination of acoustic and electric guitars, haunting vocals, and a variety of effects. The chord progression of Verse 3 is interesting as it features a mix of diatonic chords, borrowed chords, and extensions such as the add9 chords that contribute to the song’s unique sound.

“Since I’ve Been Loving You” is a blues-influenced rock ballad by Led Zeppelin. Its chord progression showcases the band’s eclectic mix of blues, rock, and jazz influences. The progression is characterized by a mix of diatonic and chromatically altered chords, reflecting a sophisticated understanding of harmony and emotional depth that is typical of Led Zeppelin’s music.

“Hallelujah” by Jeff Buckley is a popular and iconic song that showcases Jeff Buckley’s unique vocal talent and emotional delivery. The song is in the key of C major and features a simple yet effective chord progression. The song’s memorable melody is accompanied by guitar, which uses arpeggiated fingerpicking. This adds to its musical depth and also creates dynamic rhythmic interest. The song builds in intensity as it progresses, and this, along with the powerful lyrics, contributes to the overall emotional impact of the piece.

Beck – Lord Only Knows – Verse 3

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Chord Progression

B, D, A, F#, E, B, D, A, F#, E, B, F#, E, B, D, A, F#, E

Chord Progression Analysis

B Major (I), D Major (bIII), A Major (V), F# Major (IV), E Major (II), B Major (I), D Major (bIII), A Major (V), F# Major (IV), E Major (II), B Major (I), F# Major (IV), E Major (II), B Major (I), D Major (bIII), A Major (V), F# Major (IV), E Major (II)

Borrowed Chords:
“`
D Major (bIII)
“`

Similar Chord Progressions

1. “Girl from the North Country” by Bob Dylan
Chord progression: D Major (I), G Major (IV), A Major (V), Bb Major (bIII), G Major (IV), D Major (I)

2. “Go Your Own Way” by Fleetwood Mac
Chord progression: F Major (I), G Major (V), Ab Major (bIII), F Major (I), G Major (V), Ab Major (bIII), F Major (I), G Major (II), F Major (I), Bb Major (IV)

3. “The Weight” by The Band
Chord progression: G Major (I), Bb Major (bIII), F Major (VII), G Major (I), Bb Major (bIII), F Major (VII)

Note that these songs may not share the exact same chord progression as “Lord Only Knows” but they do have similarities, including the use of the borrowed bIII chord.

Musical Analysis

In this chord progression, the song starts in the key of B Major. The progression moves between the tonic (I), subdominant (IV), and dominant (V) chords, which are typical in tonal music. The interesting twist in this progression is the presence of the borrowed bIII chord (D Major).

The bIII chord (D Major) is borrowed from the parallel minor (B minor) and creates a feeling of tension and contrast to the tonal center of B Major. This tension-release dynamic adds depth and intrigue to the chord progression, giving it a sense of movement and unpredictability.

Overall Analysis

“Lord Only Knows” by Beck is a blend of folk and country with a touch of alternative rock. The song features an interesting chord progression, especially in Verse 3, which includes a mixture of major and minor chords as well as a few borrowed chords.

Style Analysis

“Lord Only Knows” combines elements of folk, country, and alternative rock in its chord progression and arrangement. The use of the borrowed bIII chord in Verse 3 is reminiscent of the harmonic language found in folk and country music, while the slightly unconventional structure and the blend of major and minor chords lend a nod to the alternative rock genre.

Chords in the Verse 3 section of Lord Only Knows by Beck are:

B, D, A, F#, E, B, D, A, F#, E, B, F#, E, B, D, A, F#, E