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Related Music Theory Alchemy

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.

“Paper Tiger” by Beck is a unique and stylistic piece, displaying a blend of various genres and influences. The verse 2 chord progression is quite simple, but the harmonic choices create tension and provide a sense of movement throughout the progression. Combining the elements of rock, folk, and alternative music, this chord progression is both intriguing and musically satisfying.

The progression for the chorus of “Sometimes It Snows In April” by Prince exhibits a rich mixture of non- diatonic chords and borrowed chords. The tonal center of the song is A, but it doesn’t strictly follow a specific major or minor scale, creating an interesting blend of light and dark tonalities. This characteristic is a common feature in Prince’s works, showing his notable talent for blending the traditional with the unconventional.

The chorus of “The Good Life” by Weezer features a mixture of diatonic and non-diatonic chords, with a primary focus on the key of G major. The chord progression stands out as somewhat unconventional due to the inclusion of chromatic chords, which gives it an interesting character and emotion. Additionally, the repetition of certain chords emphasizes the harmonic structure and creates a sense of familiarity.

“Knights of Cydonia” by Muse features a harmonically straightforward chord progression within the rock style. This progression is primarily based in the key of E minor and centers around the Em, Bm, and A chords. Throughout the song, the driving rhythm, vocal melodies, and transitions between different sections contribute to its energetic and dramatic qualities.

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#