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Related Music Theory Alchemy

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.

“Heart Is A Drum” by Beck is primarily a folk and indie rock song that features an interesting harmonic structure in the Hook 2. The progression adds complexity and emotional depth to the song by diverging from the standard conventions of Western popular music. The chord progression includes a borrowed chord, which adds richness to the overall sound.

The Beatles’ “Rocky Raccoon” incorporates a repeating sequence of predominantly seventh chords, displaying a mix of minor, dominant, and sustained chords within the and C Major/A minor keys. This diversity contributes to the song’s unique harmony, and given its context in a folk rock style, the progression exudes a rustic, storytelling personality.

“1979” by The Smashing Pumpkins employs a variety of chords throughout the song, including major, major 7th, and minor 7th chords. The chord progression varies between sections but is based mostly on a mid-tempo groove in the key of E Major. The song utilizes common pop/rock conventions to create a dreamy and nostalgic soundscape, with the juxtaposition of the major and minor 7th chords adding complexity.

“Hey You” by Pink Floyd is a progressive rock song from the concept album “The Wall.” The song is characterized by its atmospheric sound created through a combination of acoustic and electric guitars, haunting vocals, and a variety of effects. The chord progression of Verse 3 is interesting as it features a mix of diatonic chords, borrowed chords, and extensions such as the add9 chords that contribute to the song’s unique sound.

Beck – Sexx Laws – Verse 3

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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 (VII), F# Major (V)

`G# Major (VI+)` is a borrowed chord from the parallel minor key.

Similar Chord Progressions

– Radiohead – “No Surprises”: [‘F’, ‘Am’, ‘E’, ‘F’, ‘Am’, ‘E’, ‘F’, ‘C’]
F Major (I), A Minor (III), E Major (V+/IV), F Major (I), A Minor (III), E Major (V+/IV), F Major (I), C Major (V)

– The Beatles – “Blackbird”: [‘G’, ‘A’, ‘C#m’, ‘G’, ‘A’, ‘C#m’, ‘B’, ‘G’]
G Major (I), A Major (II), C# Minor (iv), G Major (I), A Major (II), C# Minor (iv), B Major (III), G Major (I)

Both of these examples feature borrowed chords and utilize chromatic mediants to create tension in their chord progressions, similar to “Sexx Laws” by Beck. They show how artists from various musical styles and eras have employed these techniques to create unique and engaging harmonic movement in their songs.

Musical Analysis

The verse 3 chord progression starts with the tonic B Major, establishing a strong sense of tonality. The progression then moves to G# Major, a chromatic mediant relationship. This borrowed chord from the parallel minor key adds a sense of surprise and tension. The pattern repeats twice, further accentuating the tension.

The progression then moves to A Major, the subtonic, which is commonly found in modal interchange as well as rock and pop music, creating a sense of movement towards the dominant. The verse finally resolves to the dominant, F# Major, creating a sense of resolution and anticipation for the next section of the song.

Overall Analysis

“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.

Style Analysis

The use of borrowed chords is a common feature in Beck’s music, which often experiments with various musical styles and techniques. The presence of the chromatic mediant relationship in the progression adds a touch of unpredictability commonly found in Beck’s style. The song comfortably combines elements of rock, pop, and funk, with a particular emphasis on the funky groove that drives its momentum.

Chords in the Verse 3 section of Sexx Laws by Beck are:

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