Beck – Say Goodbye – Verse 1
Say Goodbye < All Analyses
Chord Progression
G, A#, Am, C, G, A#, Am, C
Chord Progression Analysis
G major (I) – A# major (bIII) – A minor (II) – C major (IV)
G major (I) – A# major (bIII) – A minor (II) – C major (IV)
“` Borrowed Chord: A# major (bIII) from G minor “`
Similar Chord Progressions
1. Radiohead – “No Surprises”
Chord progression: F major (I) – Ab major (bIII) – G minor (II) – Bb major (IV)
2. David Bowie – “Space Oddity”
Chord progression: C major (I) – Eb major (bIII) – F major (IV) – G major (V)
Both of these examples demonstrate progressions rooted in the major key, utilizing diatonic and borrowed chords, closely resembling the chord progression found in “Say Goodbye.”
Musical Analysis
The verse progresses with a repetition of the same four chords, creating a continuous loop. Using the diatonic chords I, II, and IV (G, A minor, and C major respectively) roots the progression within the key of G major, while the inclusion of the borrowed chord A# major from the key’s parallel minor (G minor) adds tension and chromaticism to the harmony. The borrowed chord acts as a surprising element in the chord progression, pulling the listener’s ear away from the otherwise diatonic context. Overall, the harmonic movement between these chords contributes to the somewhat melancholic and introspective character of the song.
Overall Analysis
The chord progression of “Say Goodbye” by Beck uses a combination of diatonic and borrowed chords within the key of G major. The verse features a total of 8 chords: G major, A# major, A minor, and C major. The use of a borrowed chord (A# major) adds an interesting twist to the progression and provides a unique color to the harmony.
Style Analysis
“Say Goodbye” utilizes a combination of traditional diatonic harmony and chromaticism that is characteristic of alternative/indie rock late 20th-century musical styles, blending the familiar with the unexpected. Beck’s music often contains quirky harmonic choices in chord progressions, integrating elements of rock, folk, and pop.
What are the chords in: Beck – Say Goodbye – Verse 1?
G, A#, Am, C, G, A#, Am, C
