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“Paper Tiger” by Beck is a song from his album “Sea Change,” released in 2002. The style of this song is primarily alternative rock, with elements of psychedelia and baroque pop. The outro of “Paper Tiger” features a simple chord progression of E, E7, and Bm, with interesting harmonic techniques, such as secondary dominants and borrowed chords.

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.

The chord progression in Kali Uchis’ “Loner” features a mix of major, minor, and augmented chords, which contributes to the song’s unique sound and emotional depth. The progression has an unconventional and intriguing quality, while still maintaining a sense of harmonic coherence.

The song, “Somebody to Love” by Queen, utilizes the classic pop/rock harmonic structure while incorporating aspects of blues and gospel music. The harmonic progression is structured around common chords found in the key of G major. However, the way these chords are ordered and arranged is unconventional and adds depth to the song. It reflects the band’s interest in pushing the boundaries of the traditional harmonic structure common in pop music of that time. Queen is known for their innovative use of harmony, which they certainly showcase in this song.

The chorus of “Hate This And I’ll Love You” by Muse features a highly chromatic and non-diatonic chord progression, with a myriad of borrowed chords and some distinctive rock sound. The key within which the progression is based seems to shift between E minor and B minor, with a mixture of Major and minor chords throughout.

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