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Related Music Theory Alchemy

The chord progression in the chorus of “Say Goodbye” by Beck features a simple, yet unique combination of major and minor chords. It is primarily built around the key of G major, but includes a chromatic twist with the inclusion of the A# major chord. The progression is fairly repetitive, which provides a stable and recognizable backbone for the chorus.

The provided chord progression is quite simple, with a single chord (F) repeated four times. This type of progression creates a static or stable feel, with no harmonic tension to resolve. This chord progression alone isn’t enough to give a complete musical analysis, as it’s quite minimalistic, and it’s necessary to evaluate the progression in the context of the entire song. However, I can still offer some thoughts on the progression’s possible function, style notes, and similar chord progressions.

“Zombie” by The Cranberries is in the key of E minor. Its structure is generally pop and rock, with the power of distorted guitars and a heavy drumbeat complemented by Dolores O’Riordan’s haunting vocals. It utilizes a four-chord progression, which is common in many pop and rock tracks and has been a popular choice amongst songwriters for its simplicity and versatility.

The chord progression in Verse 2 of Pink Floyd’s “Welcome to the Machine” is a complex and somewhat unconventional progression. It primarily features chords from the E natural minor scale, with some borrowed chords from the parallel E major scale. The progression creates an atmospheric and moody soundscape that is characteristic of Pink Floyd’s music, especially in their album “Wish You Were Here.” It also displays a certain level of sophistication in the harmony which underscores Pink Floyd’s musical depth.

“Rocky Raccoon” by The Beatles incorporates chords commonly associated with the genre of folk or country music. It is primarily built on a repetitive chord progression which consists of Am7, D7sus4, D7, G7, C, and C/B. There’s also a use of plenty of sevenths and suspensions to create a slightly jazzy feel. It’s also worth noting The Beatles’ penchant for chords that provide a mix of major and minor tonalities.

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