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The chord progression in Beck’s “Morning” is an interesting mixture of diatonic and non-diatonic chords, creating a sense of tension and release throughout the progression. The use of borrowed chords and the mix of major and minor keys gives the piece a flowing, emotional quality.

“Paper Tiger” by Beck is a unique and stylistic piece, displaying a blend of various genres and influences. The verse 2 chord progression is quite simple, but the harmonic choices create tension and provide a sense of movement throughout the progression. Combining the elements of rock, folk, and alternative music, this chord progression is both intriguing and musically satisfying.

“Roads” by Portishead is set in the key of Am, also known as A minor. In the verse, there is an interesting use of the flat major 7 (Fmaj7) chord. This chord is not typically found within the natural minor key but is considered a borrowed chord from the A major key. Thus, this use of said borrowed chord and its resolution to the E7 dominants gives the song a unique feel, contributing to its mesmerizing and emotive ambience. Portishead tends to blend the use of A minor and A Dorian modality in their music, especially apparent in this composition.

This iconic Britpop song predominantly features the use of traditional tonal harmony found in pop songs throughout the late 20th century, and the verse specifically recalls the harmonic patterns utilized in the 1950s and 60s. The defining feature of this song (as is the case with many Oasis tunes) is the use of returning, resounding repetitions of simple chord sequences.

“Closer” by Nine Inch Nails works within a minimalist musical framework, where a few shiftless chords and tension-filled pentatonic melodies define the song. It inculcates a dark atmospheric mood through its instrumentation and harmony. The repetitive and consistent use of the Cm7 chord creates a haunting, pulsating groove that add to the atmospheric layer of the song.

Beck – Morning – VERSE 1

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Chord Progression

E, A, G#m, F#m, E, A, G#m, F#m, E, A, G#m, F#m, E, A, G#m, F#m, E, A, G#m, F#m, E, A, G#m, F#m, E, A, G#m, F#m, E, A, G#m, F#m

Chord Progression Analysis

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E Major (I) – A Major (IV) – G# Minor (vi) – F# Minor (ii)
E Major (I) – A Major (IV) – G# Minor (vi) – F# Minor (ii)
E Major (I) – A Major (IV) – G# Minor (vi) – F# Minor (ii)
E Major (I) – A Major (IV) – G# Minor (vi) – F# Minor (ii)
E Major (I) – A Major (IV) – G# Minor (vi) – F# Minor (ii)
E Major (I) – A Major (IV) – G# Minor (vi) – F# Minor (ii)
E Major (I) – A Major (IV) – G# Minor (vi) – F# Minor (ii)
E Major (I) – A Major (IV) – G# Minor (vi) – F# Minor (ii)

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Similar Chord Progressions

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1. Bob Dylan – “Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door”
Chord Progression: G Major (I) – D Major (V) – A Minor (ii) – G Major (I) – D Major (V) – C Major (IV)

2. Green Day – “21 Guns”
Chord Progression: D Major (I) – A Major (V) – B Minor (vi) – G Major (IV)

3. Oasis – “Wonderwall”
Chord Progression: E Minor (i) – G Major (III) – D Major (VII) – A Major (IV)

These examples share some similarities with the chord progression in “Morning” in that they all make use of simple diatonic chords, have repetitive structures, and exhibit a sense of warmth and familiarity.

Musical Analysis

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The chord progression follows a simple, repetitive pattern that is common in pop and rock music. It has a strong sense of tonality with the E Major chord (I) beginning each cycle. The A Major chord (IV) provides a departure from the tonic and contributes to the sense of resolution when returning to E Major. The G# Minor (vi) and F# Minor (ii) chords both add some tension and emotion to the progression. The fact that there are no borrowed chords or modulations in this particular chord progression maintains a sense of familiarity and simplicity.

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Overall Analysis

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The given chord progression is from the verse of Beck’s song “Morning.” The progression is in the key of E Major and follows a cyclical pattern throughout the verse.

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Style Analysis

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The style of this chord progression is reflective of Beck’s indie/folk-rock sensibilities. The focus on diatonic chords creates a warm, folky feel. Furthermore, this straightforward and repetitive progression is typical of pop, rock, and folk genres, supporting a melodic and/or lyrical focus in the song.

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Chords in the Verse 1 section of Morning by Beck are:

E, A, G#m, F#m, E, A, G#m, F#m, E, A, G#m, F#m, E, A, G#m, F#m, E, A, G#m, F#m, E, A, G#m, F#m, E, A, G#m, F#m, E, A, G#m, F#m