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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.

The provided chord progression is quite simple, with a single chord (F) repeated four times. This type of progression creates a static or stable feel, with no harmonic tension to resolve. This chord progression alone isn’t enough to give a complete musical analysis, as it’s quite minimalistic, and it’s necessary to evaluate the progression in the context of the entire song. However, I can still offer some thoughts on the progression’s possible function, style notes, and similar chord progressions.

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“Closer” by Nine Inch Nails utilizes a relatively simple chord structure, which allows the song to establish a pervasive atmosphere and direct the listener’s focus on the lyrics and melodies. This piece is in the key of C minor, and the chord progression is cyclical in nature, with Verse 2 consisting of the repetition of Cm7 chord throughout.

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“Glory Box” by Portishead from the album Dummy (1994) presents a haunting and somewhat melancholy ambience commonly found in their trademark trip-hop style. This song, in particular, draws from a palette of jazz-influenced harmony. The chords used, their extensions, and inversions, conjure complexity beyond basic triadic harmony. The chord progression listed appears to be in the key of D minor and employs common jazz techniques like ii-V-I progressions and usage of the half-diminished chord.

“As Tears Go By” by The Rolling Stones is a popular song from the mid-60s that features a mix of major and minor chords along with modulations between closely related keys. The overall harmonic structure shares similarities with other rock and pop songs of that era, including The Beatles and Bob Dylan.

Base Key and

Beck – Sexx Laws – Verse 2

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Chord Progression

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

Chord Progression Analysis

B Major (I), G# Major (VI), B Major (I), G# Major (VI), B Major (I), G# Major (VI), A Major (II), F# Major (V)

“`Borrowed Chords: G# Major (bVI)“`

Similar Chord Progressions

1. “Superstition” by Stevie Wonder: Eb min7 (i), Bb7 (V), Ab min7 (bVI), Eb min7 (i)

2. “Karma Police” by Radiohead: A min (i), E min (v), G (bVII), D maj (IV), G maj (bVII), C maj (III)

These songs also utilize non-diatonic chords and borrowed chords, giving them a unique harmonic character that sets them apart from standard progressions in popular music.

Musical Analysis

The chord progression starts with the B Major tonic chord (I), which establishes a clear sense of tonality. Next, the G# Major chord is a borrowed chord (bVI) from the parallel minor key (B minor). This gives a slightly unexpected twist and a touch of darkness to the harmonic movement. The alternation between B Major and G# Major creates a sense of tension and release throughout the verse.

The movement to A Major (II) brings a little bit of surprise as it is not a typical diatonic chord in the key of B Major. This non-diatonic chord adds more interest and color to the progression. Finally, the progression resolves back to F# Major (V), which is the dominant chord and strengthens the tonality in the key of B Major.

Overall Analysis

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.

Style Analysis

Beck’s use of borrowed chords and non-diatonic harmony in “Sexx Laws” reflects his diverse musical influences, especially from soul and funk genres. The chord progression is a departure from standard pop progressions, showcasing his unique songwriting style. Beck is known for experimenting with various musical styles, and the harmonies in “Sexx Laws” are a testament to his eclectic approach.

Chords in the Verse 2 section of Sexx Laws by Beck are:

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