Jeff Buckley – Hallelujah – Verse 4
Hallelujah < All Analyses
Chord Progression
C, Am, C, Am, F, G, C, G, C, F, G, Am, F, G, E7, Am
Chord Progression Analysis
C (I), Am (vi), C (I), Am (vi), F (IV), G (V), C (I), G (V), C (I), F (IV), G (V), Am (vi), F (IV), G (V), E7 (V7/vi), Am (vi)
Similar Chord Progressions
1. “Let It Be” by The Beatles:
C (I), G (V), Am (vi), F (IV), C (I), G (V), F (IV), C (I)
2. “Can’t Help Falling in Love” by Elvis Presley:
C (I), Em (iii), Am (vi), F (IV), G (V), Am (vi), F (IV), G (V), Em (iii), Am (vi), F (IV), G (V), C (I)
3. “Wake Me Up When September Ends” by Green Day:
C (I), G (V), Am (vi), F (IV), C (I), G (V), F (IV), Gsus4 (V)
These similar chord progressions also feature the use of major and minor chords, perfect cadences, and occasional modulations to the relative minor key. These antecedents showcase how this particular chord progression style has shaped different genres, such as rock, pop, and singer-songwriter music.
Musical Analysis
The chord progression starts with a common I-vi alternation in the first four chords (C-Am-C-Am) characteristic of pop ballads. The following chords F- G- C (IV-V-I) form an authentic cadence, and the repetition of the V chord (G) highlights the dominant-tonic relationship, emphasizing the key of C major. The progression then shifts back to the IV-V-I progression (F-G-C), a perfect cadence that provides a strong sense of resolution.
However, the chord progression then introduces an interesting twist with the E7 chord (V7/vi). This is a secondary dominant chord that temporarily modulates to the relative minor key (Am). The E7 creates tension and expectation, propelling the progression forward and transitioning smoothly to the final Am chord (vi), which ultimately brings the listener back to the home key of C major.
Overall Analysis
The song “Hallelujah” written by Leonard Cohen and popularly covered by Jeff Buckley is a solemn ballad consisting of poetic lyrics set to a haunting melody. This particular chord progression in Verse 4 highlights the song’s delicate balance between tension and resolution. The tonality revolves around C major, with deviations into other tonal areas, which adds complexity and emotional impact.
Style Analysis
The chord progression used in Hallelujah displays a mix of traditional and modern characteristics. The use of diatonic triadic chords, perfect cadences, and secondary dominants is reminiscent of classical and early popular music styles. Meanwhile, the blend of major and minor chords in the same progression is characteristic of modern popular music, often used to express emotional complexity and provide a sense of depth to a composition.
What are the chords in: Jeff Buckley – Hallelujah – Verse 4?
C, Am, C, Am, F, G, C, G, C, F, G, Am, F, G, E7, Am
