Beck – Nobodys Fault But My Own – Verse 1
Nobodys Fault But My Own < All Analyses
Chord Progression
D5, Dmaj7, D6, D9, F, Em, D5, D5, Dmaj7, D6, D9, F, Em, D5, Bb, Am, G, F, C, Asus
Chord Progression Analysis
D5 (I), Dmaj7 (Imaj7), D6 (I6), D9 (I9), F (♭III), Em (ii), D5 (I), D5 (I), Dmaj7 (Imaj7), D6 (I6), D9 (I9), F (♭III), Em (ii), D5 (I), Bb (♭VI), Am (v), G (IV), F (♭III), C (VII), Asus (V5sus)
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Borrowed Chords: F (♭III), Bb (♭VI), C (VII)
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Similar Chord Progressions
1. Radiohead – “Paranoid Android”
Cm (i), A♭ (VI), G (V), Fm (iv), C (III), Ddim (iio), Fm (iv), Bb (VII), G# (VI), A (V/V), E (V)
2. The Beatles – “Strawberry Fields Forever”
E♭ (I), Fm (ii), Gm (iii), C7 (V7/IV), Fm (ii), A♭ (IV), Emaj7 (V7/V), A♭ (IV), B♭ (V), A♭ (IV)
These songs are notable for their usage of borrowed chords and chromaticism, which adds depth and complexity to their harmonic structures. While the exact chord progressions may not be identical to Beck’s “Nobody’s Fault But My Own,” they highlight the innovative approaches that these artists have taken to create unique and memorable harmony in their music.
Musical Analysis
The verse begins with four D-based chords (D5, Dmaj7, D6, D9), which provide a sense of stability and establish D as the tonal center. The F (♭III) chord that follows introduces some tension as it is a borrowed chord from the parallel minor (D minor) and adds chromaticism to the progression. The progression then returns to diatonic chords with Em (ii) and D5 (I) before repeating a similar sequence.
In the second half of the verse, the progression ventures into more chromatic territory with the Bb (♭VI) and C (VII) borrowed chords, which are borrowed from the parallel minor and the Mixolydian mode, respectively. The Am (v) adds an interesting modal touch as well, as it is a variant of the expected A major chord in the D Major scale, and the progression ends with a V-I cadence in the form of a suspended Asus (V5sus) chord that resolves to D5 (I) in the next line or chorus.
Overall Analysis
The chord progression in Beck’s “Nobody’s Fault But My Own” from Verse 1 features a mix of diatonic and borrowed chords, primarily from the D Major scale but also incorporating chords from the parallel minor and other related keys. This gives the progression a unique and fresh sound that sets it apart from more traditional progressions. Notably, there are several pedal points using the D root throughout the progression, which helps maintain a sense of tonal center.
Style Analysis
Beck is known for his diverse and eclectic influences, often incorporating various styles and genres into his music. This chord progression from “Nobody’s Fault But My Own” showcases his unique approach to songwriting and harmony. The mixture of diatonic, borrowed, and modal chords enhances the emotive quality of the song and reflects Beck’s experimental nature.
What are the chords in: Beck – Nobodys Fault But My Own – Verse 1?
D5, Dmaj7, D6, D9, F, Em, D5, D5, Dmaj7, D6, D9, F, Em, D5, Bb, Am, G, F, C, Asus
