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The chord progression in the outro of Beck’s “Say Goodbye” is an interesting combination of diatonic and chromatic elements. The use of the borrowed chord A# major in the mostly diatonic setting adds an unexpected twist to the progression, creating a unique and expressive harmonic landscape.

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 Muse’s “Endlessly” from Verse 2 is a mix of diatonic chords and a borrowed chord from the parallel major key. The progression has a melancholic feel, utilizing suspended chords to create tension and release. The use of both minor and major chords provides a balanced sound, giving the piece its unique character.

The chord progression in Verse 2 of Radiohead’s “All I Need” is a relatively simple and straightforward progression featuring chords from the key of C major. The progression revolves around the I, iii, and V chords (C, Em, and G), providing a tonal base that’s consistent and easy to follow. Radiohead’s use of repetition and minimalism in this progression contributes to an emotional atmosphere and allows listeners to focus on the lyrics and other musical elements.

The chord progression featured in Radiohead’s “Motion Picture Soundtrack” Verse 2 is a four-chord loop that moves from G major to C major (acting as a suspension) and B minor (with an added 9th), creating an interesting mix of tonalities and suspensions. The progression establishes G major as the tonal center but continually moves away from it, creating a sense of ambiguity.

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