Bruno Mars – When I Was Your Man – Verse 1
When I Was Your Man < All Analyses
Chord Progression
Am, C, Dm, G, G7, C, Em/B, Am, C, Dm, G, CChord Progression Analysis
The specific chord progression for the first verse you provided is:
Am, C, Dm, G, G7, C, Em/B, Am, C, Dm, G, C.
For ease of understanding, here are both the full names of the chords and their Roman numerals in the key of C major:
– A minor (‘vi)
– C major (‘I)
– D minor (‘ii)
– G major (‘V)
– G7 (‘V7)
– C major (‘I)
– E minor over B (‘iii/vi)
– A minor (‘vi)
– C major (‘I)
– D minor (‘ii)
– G major (‘V)
– C major (‘I)
The borrowed chord in this progression is Em/B since the Em/B doesn’t naturally occur in the key of C major.
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Borrowed chord: Em/BSimilar Chord Progressions
A similar chord progression can be found in the song “Let It Be” by The Beatles. The progression used in its chorus is C – G – Am – F. In Roman numeral notation, this is I-V-vi-IV in the key of C major, which is a simple progression that is widely used through many genres.
Chord progression from ‘Let It Be’ by The Beatles:
C major (‘I), G major (‘V), A minor (‘vi), F major (‘IV).
Musical Analysis
In terms of musical theory, this chord progression follows common pop-song patterns. It starts with a vi-I-ii-V progression – a variation of the popular I–V–vi–IV progression, adding a more complex sound with the help of the seventh chord (G7). The use of Em/B functions as a sort of pivot chord, added for color and to pave a smooth transition back to Am. It’s also worth noting that the use of Dm and G major are important to establish tension and resolution within the progression, which then resolves back to the C major.
Overall Analysis
“When I Was Your Man” by Bruno Mars is in the key of C major. It is a ballad with a piano-led instrumentation, backed by Bruno’s powerful and emotive vocals. The melody and chords are relatively simple, but the lingering tone and the poignant lyrics create an emotionally resonant track. A common feature in this piece, as well as many pop songs in general, is the use of borrowed chords.
Style Analysis
Bruno Mars often draws from older musical styles for their timeless appeal, bringing in more traditional instrumentation and vintage chord progressions. This melody and progression could easily belong to a soul ballad from the ’60s or ’70s. There’s a strong sense of narrative in both the chords and the lyrics, with the minor chords highlighting feelings of regret and longing.
What are the chords in: Bruno Mars – When I Was Your Man – Verse 1?
Am, C, Dm, G, G7, C, Em/B, Am, C, Dm, G, C