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Related Music Theory Alchemy

“Think I’m In Love” by Beck is a pop-infused indie rock piece that features an easy-going, catchy melody and a simple yet effective chord progression. The use of repetitive chords throughout the Outro creates a sense of stability and familiarity. The Outro builds upon the tonal center of F Major established earlier in the song and prolongs the tonic, adding to the song’s overall sense of closure and resolution.

The chord progression of the chorus in Beck’s “Girl Acoustic” is relatively simple and straightforward, yet effective in creating a memorable and catchy tune. The song is in the key of A major, and the progression maintains a predominantly diatonic harmony.

“Girl” by The Beatles is a classic example of their use of chromatic harmony and modal interchange. The chord progression shows complexity in both its chord choices and structure, a distinguishing feature in much of their music. By closely examining this piece, we can better understand The Beatles’ harmonic technique where they blend the techniques of classical music (like chromaticism and harmonic diversity) with pop songwriting.

“Creep” by Radiohead is a well-known song that features a fairly simple chord progression in its bridge. The progression is memorable for its fusion of diatonic and chromatic elements, creating a sense of tension and interest.

“Good Vibrations” by The Beach Boys is highly complex and represents an exceptional use of harmonic structuring. The richness of the piece lies in Brian Wilson’s innovative and unpredictable songwriting, who was making significant use of modulation at the time, constantly shifting keys, in this case especially during the transition bridge.

Beck – Think Im In Love – Bridge

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Chord Progression

Am, Bb, Gm, Bbm, F, Am, Ab, Gm, Bbm

Chord Progression Analysis

– A minor (i)
– B flat Major (bII)
– G minor (viiº)
– B flat minor (bII)
– F Major (VI)
– A minor (i)
– A flat Major (bI)
– G minor (viiº)
– B flat minor (bII)

Notice that borrowed chords are quite prevalent in this progression, particularly the bII, which appears in both major and minor forms, suggesting the use of the Neapolitan chord.

Similar Chord Progressions

– The Beatles – “Strawberry Fields Forever” (Bridge): F# Major (V), G Major (VI♭), A Major (♭VII), E Major (IV)
– Radiohead – “Paranoid Android” (Section 2): Am (i), F#m (iv), Dm (vii), G (III), Bb (V), A (IV), Dbm (i)

Musical Analysis

The aforementioned Neapolitan chord (bII) in this progression provides a sense of harmonic tension, as it is not native to any diatonic major or minor scale. The resolution from Bbm to F may indicate a temporary modulation to F, particularly as the progression moves from F to Am, which may suggest a plagal motion. However, the use of Gm and Ab muddies the waters again, creating a sense of ambiguity and a lack of clear resolution.

Overall Analysis

The bridge of Beck’s “Think I’m In Love” is an interesting combination of chords, showcasing unusual harmonic choices and unexpected modulations. The tonal center of this progression appears to be ambiguous, as several key centers are explored throughout the progression, creating a sense of harmonic tension and release.

Style Analysis

Beck is known for his eclectic style, combining elements of folk, rock, and electronica, among others. This chord progression is a reflection of this eclecticism, with its unconventional harmonies and key changes. It feels adventurous, experimental, and somewhat unpredictable, which is characteristic of Beck’s music.

Chords in the Bridge section of Think Im In Love by Beck are:

Am, Bb, Gm, Bbm, F, Am, Ab, Gm, Bbm