Jeff Buckley – Hallelujah – Chorus
Hallelujah < All Analyses
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.
What are the chords in: Jeff Buckley – Hallelujah – Chorus?
F, Am, F, C, G, C, Am, C, Am
