Search

Related Music Theory Alchemy

“Sexx Laws” by Beck is a unique and interesting piece that combines elements of various musical styles including funk, rock, and pop. The chord progression found in Verse 3 is quite simple yet effective, creating a sense of tension and release.

The chord progression in the chorus of “Paper Tiger” by Beck is an interesting mix of major and minor chords which gives the song a unique and slightly melancholic vibe. While the song is in the key of E major, it contains several chords borrowed from the parallel minor key and features unusual harmonic movement. This creates a sense of tension and release that is characteristic of Beck’s music.

“Since I’ve Been Loving You” by Led Zeppelin is a slow-tempo blues-rock song featuring a sophisticated and expressive chord progression that falls predominantly within the C minor key, standing out from the more traditional blues structures. The chords in the verse display a creative use of borrowed chords and chromaticism, contributing to the song’s moody and emotionally-evocative atmosphere. The progression is less common in rock music, which is what makes it characteristic of Led Zeppelin’s innovative musical explorations.

“Roads” by Portishead is set in the key of Am, also known as A minor. In the verse, there is an interesting use of the flat major 7 (Fmaj7) chord. This chord is not typically found within the natural minor key but is considered a borrowed chord from the A major key. Thus, this use of said borrowed chord and its resolution to the E7 dominants gives the song a unique feel, contributing to its mesmerizing and emotive ambience. Portishead tends to blend the use of A minor and A Dorian modality in their music, especially apparent in this composition.

The chord progression throughout this verse of Beck’s “Lost Cause” is predominantly in the key of F Major with some chords from its relative minor (D minor). The use of borrowed chords adds variety and color to the progression, and the alternation between F major and C major chords creates a strong sense of tonality and grounding in the key of F Major. The use of Am and E7 chords provides a brief tension and leaning toward the parallel key of F minor before resolving back to the original key. This adds interest and complexity to the otherwise straightforward progression.

Beck – Sexx Laws – Verse 1

Add To Favorites Remove From Favorites

< All Analyses

Chord Progression

B, G#, B, G#, B, G#, A, F#

Chord Progression Analysis

1. B Major (I)
2. G# Major (VI)
3. B Major (I)
4. G# Major (VI)
5. B Major (I)
6. G# Major (VI)
7. A Major (II – borrowed chord)
8. F# Major (V)

`[key change]`

Chord progression analysis including borrowed chord:

B Major (I), G# Major (VI), B Major (I), G# Major (VI), B Major (I), G# Major (VI), A Major (`bII` – borrowed chord from the Phrygian mode), F# Major (V)

Similar Chord Progressions

1. Radiohead – “Paranoid Android” (Verse)
Chord progression:
C minor (i), Bb Major (VII), G Major (`III – borrowed chord`), A Major (IV)

2. Stevie Wonder – “Superstition” (Main riff)
Chord progression:
E flat minor (i), Bb minor(iv), Ab minor (`bIII`, borrowed chord), A Major (`iv`, borrowed chord)

3. The Beatles – “I Want You (She’s So Heavy)” (Verse)
Chord progression:
A Minor (i), G Major (VII), D Major (`IV – borrowed chord`), A Major (I)

Musical Analysis

This progression starts by alternating between the root chord (B Major) and the major sixth (G# Major), creating a sense of tension and intrigue as it shifts the tonal center. When it reaches the A Major chord (borrowed from the Phrygian mode), it brings an element of surprise and adds chromatic interest to the progression. Lastly, the F# Major chord functions as a dominant chord, resolving back to the root B Major, giving a sense of completion and resolution.

Overall Analysis

The chord progression in the verse of Beck’s “Sexx Laws” is a blend of major and minor chords, which creates a unique and somewhat unpredictable sound. The progression shifts between the key of B major and G# minor, reflecting an adventurous approach to harmony. The style of this progression has a hint of funk and jazz, with a touch of blues.

Style Analysis

The combination of major and minor chords, as well as the presence of a borrowed chord, creates a distinct harmonic identity that can be found in several music genres, such as funk, jazz, blues, and rock. Beck is known for his ability to blend various styles and elements in his music, and “Sexx Laws” is no exception.

Chords in the Verse 1 section of Sexx Laws by Beck are:

B, G#, B, G#, B, G#, A, F#