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Related Music Theory Alchemy

The chord progression in the verse of Beck’s “Paper Tiger” can be considered a combination of common and non-diatonic chords. The progression moves from a major chord to its dominant 7th and then resolves to the relative minor. Stylistically, this progression is used in rock, pop, and jazz music to create tension and resolution while maintaining a sense of movement or flow.

The chord progression of the chorus in Beck’s “Girl Acoustic” is relatively simple and straightforward, yet effective in creating a memorable and catchy tune. The song is in the key of A major, and the progression maintains a predominantly diatonic harmony.

“Don’t Look Back in Anger” by Oasis is written in the key of C major. Although it largely conforms to the traditional progressions expected within this key, the song does feature some interesting variations in the form of borrowed chords coming from the parallel minor key (C minor) – a common technique used in pop and rock music.

“Electric Feel” by MGMT is a funky and psychedelic pop song with an infectious groove and memorable hooks. The chorus consists of a chord progression that features a variety of diatonic chords along with a borrowed chord from the parallel minor key. The progression is based around oscillations between minor and major tonalities, which adds a sense of tension and release. This, combined with the rhythmic syncopation and psychedelic production, contributes to the iconic and unique character of the song.

The chord progression for Radiohead’s “All I Need” chorus features a simple and repetitive structure, with a strong emphasis on the tonic (C major) and its relative minor (E minor). The progression then ends with a brief move to the dominant (G major), before returning to the tonic. This accessible sequence reflects the song’s emotional vulnerability and simplicity, while also showcasing the band’s ability to create emotional depth in their music.

Beck – Paper Tiger – Chorus

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Chord Progression

E, C, A, E, C, A, E, C, A, E, A, G, D, E

Chord Progression Analysis

E Major (I), C Major (bVI), A Major (IV), E Major (I),
C Major (bVI), A Major (IV), E Major (I),
C Major (bVI), A Major (IV), E Major (I),
A Major (IV), G Major (bIII), D Major (bVII), E Major (I)

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Borrowed Chords: C Major (bVI), G Major (bIII), D Major (bVII)
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Similar Chord Progressions

1. “Creep” by Radiohead (Verse Chords):
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G Major (I), B Major (#III), C Major (IV), C Minor (iv)
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2. “While My Guitar Gently Weeps” by The Beatles (Verse Chords):
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A Minor (i), A Major (I), C# Minor (iv), G Major (VII), G Minor (vii)
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3. “Champagne Supernova” by Oasis (Main Progression Chords):
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A Major (I), E Major (V), F# Minor (vi), D Major (IV), G Major (bVII), A Major (I)
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These similar progressions also blend major and minor chords to create an emotional context in their respective songs. However, it’s important to note that they differ in terms of harmony, chord quality, and overall structure.

Musical Analysis

The chorus of “Paper Tiger” repeatedly uses the progression I – bVI – IV, which is an interesting mix of diatonic and borrowed chords. E major serves as the tonal center, giving a sense of resolution when returned to after each progression. The use of borrowed chords C Major (bVI) and G Major (bIII) introduces chromaticism which adds color and depth to the progression. Additionally, the final inclusion of the D Major (bVII) chord creates a sense of closure before resolving back to E Major (I).

Overall Analysis

The chord progression in the chorus of “Paper Tiger” by Beck is an interesting mix of major and minor chords which gives the song a unique and slightly melancholic vibe. While the song is in the key of E major, it contains several chords borrowed from the parallel minor key and features unusual harmonic movement. This creates a sense of tension and release that is characteristic of Beck’s music.

Style Analysis

This chord progression is characteristic of Beck’s unique style, which often combines unconventional elements to create compelling and memorable music. The incorporation of borrowed chords and alternating between major and minor chords adds emotional contrast, making the chorus feel both familiar and unexpected. This duality can create a sense of intrigue, drawing the listener in.

Chords in the Chorus section of Paper Tiger by Beck are:

E, C, A, E, C, A, E, C, A, E, A, G, D, E