Music Theory Alchemy

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The chord progression in the chorus of Beck’s “Think I’m In Love” is a fairly simple one that revolves around two key centers, Ab major and Eb major. The main chords used are based on the I-IV-V structure which is common in rock and pop music. It features a major I-IV relationship and an unexpected chord, F major, which adds some harmonic interest.

The chord progression in the hook of Beck’s “Heart Is A Drum” is in the key of C major and follows a strong diatonic harmonic structure, with the exception of the Dm7, which acts as a borrowed chord from the parallel minor (C minor). The progression exudes a feeling of longing and nostalgia, typical of many popular songs in the indie-folk genre.

The song ‘Today’ by The Smashing Pumpkins is a classic example of mixing major and minor modes in rock music. The majority of the song is modal, centered around D major and B minor. However, the bridge section changes gears and revolves around E minor.

The chord progression in the bridge of Kali Uchis’ “After The Storm” consists of two alternating chords, Amaj7 and Dmaj7, played repeatedly. This progression is simple yet effective, creating a smooth and mellow atmosphere that matches well with the song’s overall neo-soul and R&B vibe. The arrangement is in the key of A Major and has a diatonic structure without any borrowed chords.

“Maxwell’s Silver Hammer” is a Beatles song composed in the key of D Major. It’s a classic example of Paul McCartney’s knack for catchy pop songwriting. This song showcases McCartney’s affinity for borrowing chords to make his progressions more interesting.

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