Jimi Hendrix – Castles Made Of Sand – Chorus 2
Castles Made Of Sand < All Analyses
Chord Progression
G, D, F, C
Chord Progression Analysis
G Major (I), D Major (V), F Major (bVII), C Major (IV)
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Borrowed Chord: F Major (bVII)
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Similar Chord Progressions
1) The Beatles – “While My Guitar Gently Weeps”
Chord Progression: Am (i), G (VII), Am/G (i), Am/F# (i), Am/F (i), G (VII), C (III), E (V)
2) Radiohead – “Karma Police”
Chord Progression: Am (vi), D (IV), G (I), Em (ii), G (I), F#m (ii°), F (bVII), C (IV)
Both of these examples share similarities with Hendrix’s progression, particularly through the use of non-diatonic chords and the incorporation of tension and resolution via borrowed chords or secondary dominants.
Musical Analysis
The primary chords of the progression can be traced to G major, with the exception of F Major which is a borrowed chord from the parallel minor (G minor). This borrowed bVII chord functions as a way to introduce greater variety and freshness to the harmony, and adds tension before resolving back to the tonic, G Major. This also foreshadows the use of the Mixolydian mode in the progression, as the F major chord is a common component in Mixolydian progressions.
A unique aspect of the progression is that it doesn’t follow a traditional harmonic structure like most songs of that time. Instead of using the classic IV-V-I progression, Hendrix cleverly avoids resolution to the I chord for a more intriguing sequence.
Overall Analysis
Jimi Hendrix’s “Castles Made of Sand” is an interesting and unique composition with an innovative chord progression. The song is in the key of G major and is characterized by an engaging and complex harmonic structure that showcases Hendrix’s skill as a songwriter and performer. The chord progression, though relatively simple, creates a sense of depth and movement uncommon during that time period.
Style Analysis
Jimi Hendrix is known for his innovative and groundbreaking approach to guitar playing and songwriting. His incorporation of unusual and fresh harmonic structures such as within “Castles Made of Sand” expanded the boundaries of popular music during the late 1960s. This song, in particular, highlights Hendrix’s distinctive ability to fuse rock, blues, and psychedelic music styles, creating a unique and mesmerizing sound.
What are the chords in: Jimi Hendrix – Castles Made Of Sand – Chorus 2?
G, D, F, C
