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The chord progression in the chorus of “Lost Cause” by Beck showcases a simple yet effective pattern utilizing major chords and a dominant seventh chord, which creates tension and resolution throughout the progression. The song is in C major, and the chords predominantly follow the diatonic harmony of the key. The style is reminiscent of folk and alternative rock, with the harmony playing a significant role in evoking a sense of melancholy in the listener.

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 MGMT’s “Congratulations” contains a mix of diatonic and non-diatonic chords, which provide a combination of stability and tension throughout the progression. The harmonic rhythm is slow, and the progression is mostly driven by bass line movement and voice leading. The mixture of borrowed chords, inversions, and suspended chords contributes to the overall unique character of the piece.

The chord progression in the verse 2 of “House of The Rising Sun” by The Animals is an iconic progression in popular music. The song is in the key of A minor, and is built using diatonic and borrowed chords with some chromaticism. The progression features a strong sense of movement and resolution, with the mix of major and minor chords creating an emotional and dramatic atmosphere.

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“Don’t Look Back In Anger” uses simple yet effective chord progressions common in pop/rock music. It incorporates both major and minor chords, showing some classic pop sensibilities. The song is situated in the key of C Major. Embedded within this progression are instances of borrowed chords – the E7 for instance, is a secondary dominant, often used to inject a bit of tension and to give strong resolution leading into the next chord.

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Beck – Lost Cause – Verse 2

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Chord Progression

F, C, C/B, F, C, C/B, F, C, C/B, Am, E7, F, C, C/B, F, C, C/B, F, C, C/B, Am, E7

Chord Progression Analysis

F major (I) – C major (V) – C major/B (V6) – F major (I) – C major (V) – C major/B (V6) – F major (I) – C major (V) – C major/B (V6) – A minor (vi) – E7 (V7/vi) – F major (I) – C major (V) – C major/B (V6) – F major (I) – C major (V) – C major/B (V6) – F major (I) – C major (V) – C major/B (V6) – A minor (vi) – E7 (V7/vi)

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E7 (V7/vi) is a borrowed chord.
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Similar Chord Progressions

1. Simon & Garfunkel – “The Boxer”

G major (I) – A minor (ii) – C major (IV) – G major (I) – C major (IV) – G major/B (I6) – A minor (ii) – C major(IV)

2. Oasis – “Wonderwall”

F# minor (i) – A major (III) – E major (VII) – B major (IV) – D major (VI) – A major (III) – E major (VII) – B major (IV)

3. Tracy Chapman – “Fast Car”

C major (I) – G major (V) – E minor (iii) – F major (IV) – C major (I) – G major (V) – F major (IV) – C major (I)

Musical Analysis

The chord progression predominantly alternates between F major and C major, providing a stable foundation. The C major/B adds a touch of tension and interest with its first inversion while maintaining the emphasis on C major. The chord progression deviates from this pattern with A minor and the borrowed E7 chord, creating a momentary sense of anticipation before resolving back to F major. The E7 chord is borrowed from the parallel minor (F minor), acting as a secondary dominant chord to create a stronger pull towards the A minor chord.

Overall Analysis

“Lost Cause” by Beck from the album “Sea Change” showcases a melancholic and heartfelt mood with a slow tempo, exuding a sense of introspection and vulnerability. The song can be described as a folk-rock ballad with subtle touches of country and indie rock.

Style Analysis

This chord progression is representative of Beck’s melancholic folk-rock style. It is characterized by simple but expressive melodies and harmonies, with a strong focus on storytelling and emotion. Guitar and acoustic instrumentation are used prominently in this style, imbuing the piece with an organic quality.

Chords in the Verse 2 section of Lost Cause by Beck are:

F, C, C/B, F, C, C/B, F, C, C/B, Am, E7, F, C, C/B, F, C, C/B, F, C, C/B, Am, E7