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Related Music Theory Alchemy

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.

The chord progression in the chorus of “Sexx Laws” by Beck is a non-diatonic chord progression that features chromatic and unexpected chords. The progression seems to be based in the key of E major, but the chords used are not strictly within the E major scale, providing a distinctive sound and style characteristic of Beck’s music. The progression contains some parallel major chords, giving it a distinct classic rock vibe.

The chord progression in the verse 2 of Beck’s “Morning” is an example of a common progression in popular music, involving the I, IV, iii, and ii chords. The harmony is mostly diatonic, staying within the key of E major. The progression features regular 4-chord phrases and a smooth, consonant flow between chords.

“Brown Sugar” by The Rolling Stones, off their 1971 album Sticky Fingers, is in the key of C major, and primarily uses the chords C, F, G and Bb. This song showcases the band’s blues rock influences, built on a repetitive, riff-driven chord progression. The use of I, IV, V, and a borrowed bVII (Bb), which is common in the blues, creates an appealing and familiar sound, helping the song resonate with listeners.

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“Cant Buy Me Love” by The Beatles is a pure example of their early rock-and-roll style influenced by blues. It uses common chord progressions in rock and blues, such as the I-IV-V progression and the use of dominant 7th chords. The song is set in C major, and makes repeated use of the I-IV (C-F) progression. A significant feature in the song is the use of the dominant 7th chords (C7 and F7), which adds some bluesy quality to the song and also serves as a transition chord to the next chord in the progression.

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Beck – Say Goodbye – Verse 2

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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)

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Borrowed Chord: A# major (bIII)
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Similar Chord Progressions

1. Radiohead – “Creep”: [G major (I), B major (bIII), C major (IV), C minor (iv)]
2. David Bowie – “Heroes”: [D major (I), F# major (bIII), G major (IV), G minor (iv)]
3. The Beatles – “While My Guitar Gently Weeps”: [Am (i), A# major (bII), G (bVII), C (III)]

These songs feature similar chord progressions with a borrowed chord that adds an unexpected and powerful mood shift within their respective keys.

Musical Analysis

The progression begins with the tonic chord, G major, followed by a borrowed chord, A# major, before settling into the diatonic chords A minor and C major. The A# major adds a surprising and colorful twist to the otherwise standard progression in the key of G major. The A# major chord acts as a borrowed chord from the parallel minor key of G minor, giving the progression a refreshing and emotionally complex quality. The repeated cycle of these chords lends a sense of development and movement throughout the verse.

Overall Analysis

The chord progression in Verse 2 of Beck’s “Say Goodbye” showcases a unique blend of chords that are not commonly heard together in popular music. The mix of major, minor, and borrowed chords creates an interesting and engaging sound. Its distinctive quality can be found in the use of the A# major chord, which is not diatonic to the key of G major.

Style Analysis

This chord progression showcases Beck’s experimental and creative approach to songwriting, as he is known for integrating various musical styles and influences. This particular progression has a slight touch of classical influence due to the functional aspect of the chords, but it also carries a hint of pop-rock sensibility. The use of a borrowed chord, like the A# major in this case, is a technique commonly found in many contemporary music genres, which adds emotional depth and contrast to a song.

Chords in the Verse 2 section of Say Goodbye by Beck are:

G, A#, Am, C, G, A#, Am, C