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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.

“Heart Is A Drum” by Beck is a song with a somewhat unconventional chord progression in the hook that features major and minor chords, as well as a borrowed minor chord. It has a melancholic and introspective feeling to it. The style can be associated with the indie folk-pop genre.

“Electric Feel” by MGMT is characterized by its repetitive, catchy chord progression and usage of both major and minor chords which create a unique, surreal atmosphere. The song includes elements of psychedelic pop, funk, and electronic music.

“Fake Plastic Trees” by Radiohead is a haunting and introspective ballad that features an evocative chord progression. The progression appears to have been influenced by alternative rock and combines elements of both major and minor tonalities, as well as non-diatonic and diatonic chords. This blend of harmonic flavors creates an unforgettable sound that is melancholic, yet beautiful.

The chord progression in question is from the verse 2 of Weezer’s “The Good Life.” It is a pop-rock song in the key of G major, and the progression features common chords found in the key, with one borrowed chord – B7 – to add a touch of tension and harmonic interest.

Chord Progression Analysis (with Roman Numerals):
G Major (I) – D Major (V) – A minor (ii) – E Major (VI) – G Major (I) – D Major (V) – A minor (ii) – E Major (VI) – G Major (I) – D Major (V) – A minor (ii) – E Major (VI) – G Major (I) – D Major (V) – A minor (ii) – E Major (VI) – G Major (I) – D Major (V) – A minor (ii) – B7 (`V7/iii`)

The borrowed chord in question is the B7, which is borrowed from the relative minor key (E minor) and functions as a secondary dominant to the iii chord (B minor).

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