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Related Music Theory Alchemy

The key of the song is D major which makes it easier to analyze the chord progression according to the diatonic scale in the key of D Major.

“Iris” by Goo Goo Dolls is a song in the key of D Major, and uses a very common pop/rock chord progression. The sheer repetition of the progression throughout the verse establishes a solid harmonic background upon which the melody can freely roam. Chords include the primary triads (I, IV, V) which are D, G, A, minor variations of the secondary triads (ii, iii, vi), which are Em, F#m, Bm.

Prince’s “Purple Rain” is a classic power ballad, rooted deeply in pop and rock genres. The chord progressions, with particular emphasis on the one given in Verse 3, underlines Prince’s lyricism and craft, showcasing his unique ability to blend seemingly simple chord progressions to evoke emotional and profound moods. The key of the song is G major.

“Yesterday” is predominantly composed in the key of F Major. The song is a classic in pop songwriting and showcases the effective use of borrowed chords to capture a unique, nostalgic sound that has made it one of the most covered songs in pop music. Specifically, in this verse, the use of secondary dominants and borrowed chords from the parallel minor key provides the song’s distinctive tonal color.

“Sexx Laws” by Beck is a unique and interesting piece that combines elements of various musical styles including funk, rock, and pop. The chord progression found in Verse 3 is quite simple yet effective, creating a sense of tension and release.

Goo Goo Dolls – Iris – Verse 3

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Chord Progression

[‘D’, ‘Em’, ‘G’, ‘Bm’, ‘A’, ‘G’, ‘D’, ‘Em’, ‘G’, ‘Bm’, ‘A’, ‘G’]

Chord Progression Analysis

The chord progression shows an alternation in the use of Major and Minor chords, creating dynamic tension and contrasting feelings of positive/negative, tension/release. The unique progression, D – Em – G – Bm – A – G, sets up an interesting and unusual harmonic rhythm. There’s a reliance on IV and V Major chords and the ‘home’ chord is only resolved to periodically, which aids the song’s emotional intensity.

Similar Chord Progressions

“`plaintext
Em7 (ii7)
G (IV)
Dsus4 (Isus4)
A7sus4 (V7sus4)
“`

Musical Analysis

“Iris” has a distinct alternative rock style. There’s a sense of heart-on-sleeve emotional truth along with an edgy sound. This comes partially from the unique chord progressions used in the song. Additionally, there is a generous use of open chords throughout.

Overall Analysis

“`plaintext
D Major (I)
E Minor (ii)
G Major (IV)
B Minor (vi)
A Major (V)
G Major (IV)
D Major (I)
E Minor (ii)
G Major (IV)
B Minor (vi)
A Major (V)
G Major (IV)
“`

Style Analysis

One song to compare “Iris” with might be “Wonderwall” by Oasis. “Wonderwall” has its distinct flavor, yet shares some similarities in the chord structure with “Iris”.

“Wonderwall” by Oasis

Chords in the Verse 3 section of Iris by Goo Goo Dolls are:

[‘D’, ‘Em’, ‘G’, ‘Bm’, ‘A’, ‘G’, ‘D’, ‘Em’, ‘G’, ‘Bm’, ‘A’, ‘G’]