Beck – Say Goodbye – Verse 3
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)
“`
Similar Chord Progressions
1. Radiohead – Karma Police (Verse):
“`
A minor (i) – A# Major (bII) – G Major (bVII) – D Major (IV)
“`
2. The Beatles – While My Guitar Gently Weeps (Verse):
“`
A minor (i) – A major (V/V) – A# Major (bII) – G Major (bVII) – C Major (III) – E Major (V)
“`
These songs feature similar chord progressions that include borrowed chords and unconventional progressions that challenge traditional harmony. They blend different styles and evoke emotional depth through the use of non-diatonic chords.
Musical Analysis
This progression begins with a G Major chord that establishes the tonal center. The second chord, A# Major, is borrowed from the parallel minor key of G minor and creates a chromatic departure from the diatonic scale. The A# Major serves as a pivotal chord leading to the Am which is diatonic. We then transition to the C Major chord which provides a sense of resolution.
The progression repeats with the same chords, further emphasizing the uniqueness of the chords chosen by Beck in this song. The use of the bIII (borrowed) and ii chords provides a sense of tension while the I and IV chords add a sense of resolution.
Overall Analysis
The chord progression in Verse 3 of Beck’s “Say Goodbye” features an interesting mixture of diatonic and chromatic chords with noticeable tonal shifts. The progression is G – A# – Am – C – G – A# – Am – C, with an emphasis on the G major key. This progression conveys an expressive and slightly unstable mood, creating tension and release with the inclusion of borrowed and non-diatonic chords.
Style Analysis
Beck is known for blending various genres and experimenting with chord progressions that defy traditional classification. In “Say Goodbye,” he fuses elements of folk, blues, and pop with the unconventional chord progression. This combination contributes to a slightly melancholic and introspective mood, giving the song an evocative and memorable quality.
What are the chords in: Beck – Say Goodbye – Verse 3?
G, A#, Am, C, G, A#, Am, C
