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Related Music Theory Alchemy

The outro of Jeff Buckley’s “Hallelujah” features a chord progression in the key of C Major. It includes common chords from the key, as well as some borrowed chords from the parallel minor key (C minor), which adds a level of tension and emotion to the progression. The outro has a cyclical nature, with the chords leading smoothly back into the beginning and building a sense of conclusion.

“Hallelujah” by Jeff Buckley is a popular and iconic song that showcases Jeff Buckley’s unique vocal talent and emotional delivery. The song is in the key of C major and features a simple yet effective chord progression. The song’s memorable melody is accompanied by guitar, which uses arpeggiated fingerpicking. This adds to its musical depth and also creates dynamic rhythmic interest. The song builds in intensity as it progresses, and this, along with the powerful lyrics, contributes to the overall emotional impact of the piece.

The chorus of Muse’s “Hysteria” displays a mix of chords from the key of C Major and borrowed chords from the parallel minor key (C minor). The chord progression uses a combination of functional harmony mixed with chromatic elements, embodying characteristics of both rock and classical genres.

The chord progression in the chorus of “Nude” by Radiohead features a mix of diatonic and borrowed chords, with some added tensions for additional color. It reflects the band’s signature style of blending unexpected harmonic elements to create a unique and evocative sound. In particular, the mix of major and minor chords with added tensions lends a sense of both familiarity and unconventionality to the progression.

The chord progression in the chorus of “Ramona” by Beck is an interesting mix of diatonic and borrowed chords that creates a unique and somewhat unexpected harmonic landscape. It combines major and minor chords, borrowed chords from the parallel minor key, and chromatic chords, making a rich harmonic texture.

Jeff Buckley – Hallelujah – Chorus

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Chord Progression

F, Am, F, C, G, C, Am, C, Am

Chord Progression Analysis

F Major (IV) – A minor (vi) – F Major (IV) – C Major (I) – G Major (V) – C Major (I) – A minor (vi) – C Major (I) – A minor (vi)

Similar Chord Progressions

“Hallelujah” has influenced many artists, and its chord progression can be found in several popular songs, albeit with slight variations.

1. “Let It Be” by The Beatles:
C Major (I) – G Major (V) – A minor (vi) – F Major (IV) – C Major (I) – G Major (V) – F Major (IV) – C Major (I)

2. “Someone Like You” by Adele:
A Major (IV) – E Major (I) – F# minor (vi) – D Major (II) – A Major (IV) – E Major (I) – F# minor (vi) – D Major (II)

While neither of these progressions is identical to that of “Hallelujah,” they both contain elements of the original, such as a strong emphasis on the IV and vi chords, and the alternation between I and V or I and II chords. This underscores the enduring impact of “Hallelujah” on contemporary popular music.

Musical Analysis

The chorus begins with an F Major chord (IV), which has a strong pull back to the tonic (C Major, I). The subsequent A minor (vi) then acts as a substitute for F Major and effectively prolongs the subdominant, creating a sense of suspension. The progression then returns to F Major (IV) and resolves to the tonic (C Major, I). This is followed by a standard V-I cadence (G Major to C Major), reinforcing the tonal center.

The progression concludes with a series of alternating A minor (vi) and C Major (I) chords. This strikes a balance between stability and instability, providing a satisfying conclusion. It is important to note that the entire progression is composed of diatonic chords that belong to the key of C Major; no borrowed chords are present.

Overall Analysis

The chorus from Jeff Buckley’s rendition of “Hallelujah” in the key of C major beautifully demonstrates a diverse range of chords and harmonic techniques. The chord progression incorporates diatonic chords, borrowed chords, and some unexpected harmonic twists, all of which work together to create a sense of emotional depth and tension throughout the chorus.

Style Analysis

The chord progression is rooted in the pop/rock idiom, and the simplicity of the chords themselves is reminiscent of various traditions within popular music, including folk and gospel. Though “Hallelujah” is a deeply emotional song, the chorus’ straightforward progression allows the listener to focus on the poignant lyrics and Jeff Buckley’s expressive performance.

Chords in the Chorus section of Hallelujah by Jeff Buckley are:

F, Am, F, C, G, C, Am, C, Am