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The given chord progression is from Beck’s song “Sexx Laws” and runs as follows: B, G#, B, G#, B, G#, A, F#. This progression features chords mainly from the B Major key, but includes borrowed chords from the parallel minor key as well. The harmonic movement showcases Beck’s interesting approach to songwriting and shows some influence from the soul and funk genres.

The outro of Beck’s song “Morning” features a beautiful and interesting chord progression in the key of E major. This progression has a mix of diatonic and borrowed chords that creates an evocative sonority and dreamy atmosphere, fitting seamlessly with the rest of the song.

The chord progression in Kali Uchis’ “Loner” features a mix of major, minor, and augmented chords, which contributes to the song’s unique sound and emotional depth. The progression has an unconventional and intriguing quality, while still maintaining a sense of harmonic coherence.

“Kiss” is a funk, synthpop song written, produced and performed by Prince. The song’s structure runs around a simple, repeated two-bar eight-note pattern, but what’s odd is the song’s key. Dotting between E and D, it’s hard to pin down definitively, but the song seems to be written in the ambiguous key of E Mixolydian/D major.

The song, “Somebody to Love” by Queen, utilizes the classic pop/rock harmonic structure while incorporating aspects of blues and gospel music. The harmonic progression is structured around common chords found in the key of G major. However, the way these chords are ordered and arranged is unconventional and adds depth to the song. It reflects the band’s interest in pushing the boundaries of the traditional harmonic structure common in pop music of that time. Queen is known for their innovative use of harmony, which they certainly showcase in this song.

Beck – Sexx Laws – Chorus

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Chord Progression

E, G#, C#, G, F#, F, E, D, A, A#

Chord Progression Analysis

E Major (I), G# Major (bIII), C# Major (V/vi), G Major (bIII/iv), F# Major (II), F Major (bII), E Major (I), D Major (VII), A Major (IV), A# Diminished (iv°)

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Borrowed chords: G# Major, G Major, F Major, A# Diminished
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Similar Chord Progressions

1. Radiohead – “Paranoid Android” (in a different key): Bb Major (I), Db Major (bIII), F# Major (V/vi), Eb Major (IV), D Major (VII), A Major (IV), Bb Major (I)
2. The Beatles – “While My Guitar Gently Weeps” (in a different key): Am (i), A#dim (iidim), C#m7(b5) (ivm7b5), C (bIII), G (VII), F#dim (vidim), E (VI)

Each of these songs uses unexpected chords, borrowed chords, and chromatic elements, making them similar in style to the chord progression in “Sexx Laws” by Beck.

Musical Analysis

The progression begins and ends with the E major chord, which is the tonic chord, establishing a sense of E major as the tonal center. However, the second chord, G# Major, deviates from the diatonic chords in E major and is a borrowed chord. The movement from the E major to the G# Major introduces a chromaticism that is further enhanced by the following chords.

The inclusion of borrowed chords such as G Major, F Major, and the A# Diminished chord adds unexpected harmonic motion and color. The progression moves in chromatic and whole steps, creating a sense of tension and release. The use of parallel major chords, such as E, G#, C#, G, and F#, contributes to a classic rock sound.

Overall Analysis

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.

Style Analysis

Beck is known for his diverse and innovative musical style, drawing from various genres such as rock, blues, and folk. This particular chord progression highlights Beck’s ability to combine traditional harmony with non-diatonic, unexpected, and chromatic elements. The classic rock-inspired parallel major chords, inject a vintage flavor, and the overall progression can be considered a unique blend fitting Beck’s eclectic style.

Chords in the Chorus section of Sexx Laws by Beck are:

E, G#, C#, G, F#, F, E, D, A, A#