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Related Music Theory Alchemy

The chord progression in Verse 3 of Beck’s “Say Goodbye” features an interesting mixture of diatonic and chromatic chords with noticeable tonal shifts. The progression is G – A# – Am – C – G – A# – Am – C, with an emphasis on the G major key. This progression conveys an expressive and slightly unstable mood, creating tension and release with the inclusion of borrowed and non-diatonic chords.

The outro of “Heart Is A Drum” by Beck features a non-diatonic chord progression that includes a mixture of major, minor, and suspended chords. This chord progression results in a sense of longing and unresolved tension that is appropriate for an outro section. Additionally, the progression includes a borrowed chord, the Eb6sus2, which is borrowed from the parallel minor key and contributes to the unique, emotional quality of the song.

“Weezer – Island In The Sun (Bridge)” is a relatively simple yet melodically impactful chord progression that utilizes a mixture of major and minor chords. The song is in the key of G major, and the bridge follows a (V – I) D-G progression initially, before moving to the IV (C) and ii (Am) chords. The harmonic rhythm of the bridge creates a sense of resolution and adds emotional depth to the song.

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“The Smashing Pumpkins” in the song ‘1979’ has used a somewhat unconventional yet memorable chord progression, particularly in the bridge section. This progression creates a certain mood and melodic texture befitting the song’s laid-back yet emotionally resonant feel.

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“Good Vibrations” by The Beach Boys is highly complex and represents an exceptional use of harmonic structuring. The richness of the piece lies in Brian Wilson’s innovative and unpredictable songwriting, who was making significant use of modulation at the time, constantly shifting keys, in this case especially during the transition bridge.

Beck – Say Goodbye – Bridge

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Chord Progression

D, C

Chord Progression Analysis

D Major (I) – C Major (bVII)

Borrowed chord:
`C Major (bVII)`

Similar Chord Progressions

1. Neil Young – “Down by the River”
Chord Progression:
E Minor (i) – D Major (bVII)

2. The Beatles – “Hey Jude”
Chord Progression (during the outro section):
F Major (I) – E-flat Major (bVII)

3. Radiohead – “Karma Police”
Chord progression (during the chorus):
G Major (I) – F Major (bVII)

These songs feature a similar bVII movement, which contributes to their unique and memorable nature.

Musical Analysis

The bridge oscillates between the D Major and C Major chords. The use of the flattened seventh chord (C Major) in the key of D Major adds a touch of unexpectedness and intrigue, making the progression engaging. This movement between the tonic and the borrowed chord from the mixolydian mode makes the progression sound unique and captivating.

Overall Analysis

The bridge of “Say Goodbye” by Beck features a simple two-chord progression. However, this simplicity allows space for an interesting interplay between melody and harmony while still evoking strong emotions. Despite being simple, the progression still manages to create a sense of tension and resolution.

Style Analysis

Beck is known for blending various styles of music, such as folk, rock, and electronica. The choice of this simple yet unexpected chord progression contributes to his signature eclecticism. The use of the bVII chord in a major key has a hint of modal mixture, adding an element of surprise as well as lending it a distinct “Beck” quality. It’s worth noting that this chord progression can be often found in various genres, particularly in rock, alternative music, and indie.

Chords in the Bridge section of Say Goodbye by Beck are:

D, C