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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 Beck’s “Morning” is a 9-chord progression in the key of A major. This chord progression employs borrowed chords and has a unique structure that includes secondary dominant chords and mediant substitutions. The chords are mostly major with a mix of some minor chords.

Let It Happen’ by Tame Impala employs an accessible and effective chord progression, usual in pop/rock music, yet has unusualness due to the usage of the G#sus4 chord, providing a unique tonal flavor and emotional quality. There is a striking use of harmonic contrast and a continuous return and release of tension throughout the song. This creates an immersive cyclical quality, complementing the song’s theme of embracing inevitable moments and experiences.

“The Wind Cries Mary” by Jimi Hendrix is a classic example of the blending of blues, rock, and pop elements that characterizes Hendrix’s unique style. The chord progression in Verse 3 demonstrates Hendrix’s use of non-diatonic chords and chromatic harmony, while maintaining a strong sense of tonality and harmonic progression. The unconventional chord progression and the expressive guitar work contribute to the song’s lasting appeal.

“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.

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