George Benson – Give Me The Night – Chorus 1
Give Me The Night < All Analyses
Chord Progression
Fm7, Bbm7, Cm7, Dbmaj7, Fm7, Bbm7, Cm7, Dbmaj7
Chord Progression Analysis
Fm7 (i7), Bbm7 (iv7), Cm7 (v7), Dbmaj7 (♭VIΔ7), Fm7 (i7), Bbm7 (iv7), Cm7 (v7), Dbmaj7 (♭VIΔ7)
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Borrowed Chord: Dbmaj7 (♭VIΔ7)
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Similar Chord Progressions
1. Stevie Wonder – “Isn’t She Lovely?”
Chord progression: Am7 (vi7), D7 (V7/ii), Gmaj7 (IVΔ7), Cmaj7 (IΔ7), F#m7 (iii7), B7(♮9) (V7/iii), Em7 (ii7), A7(♮9) (V7/ii)
2. Michael Jackson – “Human Nature”
Chord progression: Dmaj7 (IΔ7), E7 (V7), F#m7 (iii7), Gmaj7 (IVΔ7), A7sus (V7sus), A7 (V7)
These examples showcase similar harmonic structures, where chords from the parallel major or minor key are borrowed or unexpected, creating a rich and sophisticated sound that is a hallmark of the late-’70s and early-’80s musical styles.
Musical Analysis
The progression begins with a i7-iv7-v7, which is a common progression found in minor keys, and it adds a sense of tension and release. However, the Dbmaj7 chord that follows is a borrowed chord from the parallel major key (F major). This chord adds an unexpected major sound to the progression and creates a subtle but effective modulation, resulting in a richer harmonic palette. As the progression repeats, it reinforces this harmonic structure, giving the listener a chance to absorb and appreciate its nuances.
Overall Analysis
The chorus of “Give Me The Night” by George Benson features a smooth chord progression that explores both diatonic and borrowed chords, creating a sophisticated sound that is characteristic of the jazz and R&B styles prevalent in the late 1970s and early 1980s. The progression is comprised of chords that stem from the Fm7 key but also includes a borrowed Dbmaj7 chord.
Style Analysis
“Give Me The Night” is a blend of jazz, R&B, and pop, and its chord progression is emblematic of these genres, with its smooth voice leading, diatonic and borrowed chords, and lush harmonies. The use of the borrowed chord, in combination with the syncopated rhythm and instrumentation of the song, creates a contemporary and polished sound that was popular during the late ’70s and early ’80s.
What are the chords in: George Benson – Give Me The Night – Chorus 1?
Fm7, Bbm7, Cm7, Dbmaj7, Fm7, Bbm7, Cm7, Dbmaj7
