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The chord progression in Daniel Caesar’s “Get You” from Verse 4 features a mixture of diatonic chords and borrowed chords from parallel modes. The progression showcases a smooth, soulful, and somewhat melancholic atmosphere that blends elements of R&B, jazz, and neo-soul.

“Get You” by Daniel Caesar is a soulful R&B ballad featuring a smooth and emotive chord progression that is both melancholic and uplifting. The progression is derived from the key of D major, but features a borrowed chord from its parallel minor key, D minor, which adds a unique flair to the song. Daniel Caesar’s vocal performance, accompanied by soulful instrumentation, creates a sense of nostalgia and emotional evocation that is characteristic of the R&B genre.

“Roads” by Portishead is set in the key of Am, also known as A minor. In the verse, there is an interesting use of the flat major 7 (Fmaj7) chord. This chord is not typically found within the natural minor key but is considered a borrowed chord from the A major key. Thus, this use of said borrowed chord and its resolution to the E7 dominants gives the song a unique feel, contributing to its mesmerizing and emotive ambience. Portishead tends to blend the use of A minor and A Dorian modality in their music, especially apparent in this composition.

The chord progression in the verse of Tyler, The Creator’s “Earfquake” is primarily based on a simple alternation between two chords, Bbmaj7 and Am7, with a brief excursion to Gm7 before returning to Am7. The simplicity and repetition of the progression creates a feeling of comfort and stability, while the use of major 7th and minor 7th chords adds a touch of sophistication and smoothness. The progression doesn’t follow a traditional functional harmony, but it effectively supports the melody and the overall vibe of the song.

The chord progression of Verse 1 from Radiohead’s “Motion Picture Soundtrack” features a fairly simple harmony with some unique embellishments. The common use of suspended chords and added extensions give the progression its distinctive atmosphere and modern sound.

Daniel Caesar – Get You – Verse 1

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Chord Progression

Em, F#m7, Bm, A7, Em, F#m7, Bm, A7, Em, F#m7, Bm, A7, Em, F#m7, Bm, A7

Chord Progression Analysis

Em (i), F#m7 (ii7), Bm (v), A7 (IV7), Em (i), F#m7 (ii7), Bm (v), A7 (IV7), Em (i), F#m7 (ii7), Bm (v), A7 (IV7), Em (i), F#m7 (ii7), Bm (v), A7 (IV7)

Borrowed Chord:
“`
A7 (IV7 – borrowed from E major)
“`

Similar Chord Progressions

1. “On & On” by Erykah Badu
Em9 (i9), Gmaj7 (III7), A7sus4 (IV7sus4), A7 (IV7)

2. “Ordinary People” by John Legend
Em7 (i7), Bm7 (v7), A7 (IV7), Dmaj7 (VII7)

3. “Put It All On Me” by Ed Sheeran ft. Ella Mai
Em (i), F#m7 (ii7), Bm (v), A7 (IV7)

Musical Analysis

The chord progression in “Get You” revolves around a common tonic (i) – predominant (iv or ii7) – dominant (v) – borrowed subdominant (IV7) cycle in E minor. The progression starts with the tonic Em chord, then moves to the diatonic F#m7 (ii7) chord, which serves as the predominant. The dominant, a Bm (v) chord, follows before resolving to a borrowed chord, A7 (IV7), originated from the parallel major (E major) and serves to enhance the harmonic pull back to the tonic. This entire sequence is repeated four times throughout Verse 1.

Overall Analysis

The song “Get You” by Daniel Caesar features a smooth and soulful chord progression that reflects the style of contemporary R&B and neo-soul. The chords provide a sense of warmth and sincerity that complements the song’s intimate lyrics. The progression is primarily diatonic, but with some borrowed chords, which adds an interesting color to the music.

Style Analysis

“Get You” by Daniel Caesar is a prime example of contemporary R&B and neo-soul music. The chords, along with Caesar’s smooth vocal style and intimate lyrics, create a romantic and emotive atmosphere. The use of diatonic seventh chords and the borrowed major subdominant (IV7) contribute to the lush harmonic texture typical of the neo-soul genre.

Chords in the Verse 1 section of Get You by Daniel Caesar are:

Em, F#m7, Bm, A7, Em, F#m7, Bm, A7, Em, F#m7, Bm, A7, Em, F#m7, Bm, A7