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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.

“Heart Is A Drum” by Beck, from the album Morning Phase (2014), features a simple but effective chord progression in the key of C major. This song can be classified as alternative folk rock, and the harmonies used in the chord progression are quite common in this genre, as well as popular music in general. The progression creates a sense of nostalgia and emotional resonance, elevated by Beck’s lyricism and vocal delivery.

The given chord progression is from the verse of Pink Floyd’s “Breathe,” a song from their 1973 album, “The Dark Side of the Moon.” The progression consists of alternating Em and A7 chords throughout the entire verse. This creates a sense of movement and tension between the chords while also being relatively simple and repetitive. The harmonic back-and-forth between these two chords gives the song a dreamy and immersive quality that is a signature sound of Pink Floyd’s style.

Across the Universe by The Beatles is a melancholic, introspective piece set in the key of D major, imbuing an overall sound spectrum that’s somber with a hint of hopeful resolution. The chord progression utilizes both diatonic and borrowed chords, making it both unusual and interesting.

The verse 2 chord progression from Muse’s “New Born” reflects their signature harmonic daring and interesting relationships, which provides this piece with a fresh and captivating sound. The progression features a blend of diatonic and non-diatonic chords, as well as key shifts and chromaticism. It utilizes major-minor modal interchange and emphasizes the Em – B relationship throughout.

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