Beck – Sexx Laws – Verse 1
Sexx Laws < 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.
What are the chords in: Beck – Sexx Laws – Verse 1?
B, G#, B, G#, B, G#, A, F#
