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Related Music Theory Alchemy

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.

“The Wind Cries Mary” by Jimi Hendrix is a classic example of the blending of blues, rock, and pop elements that characterizes Hendrix’s unique style. The chord progression in Verse 3 demonstrates Hendrix’s use of non-diatonic chords and chromatic harmony, while maintaining a strong sense of tonality and harmonic progression. The unconventional chord progression and the expressive guitar work contribute to the song’s lasting appeal.

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“Closer” by Nine Inch Nails utilizes a relatively simple chord structure, which allows the song to establish a pervasive atmosphere and direct the listener’s focus on the lyrics and melodies. This piece is in the key of C minor, and the chord progression is cyclical in nature, with Verse 2 consisting of the repetition of Cm7 chord throughout.

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“And I Love Her” by The Beatles is predominantly set within the key of F# minor. Apart from the chorus that momentarily modulates to the key of D minor, the verses embrace a darker, melancholic atmosphere portrayed by the minor keys. The tonal structure and chord progressions in the song are reflective of the band’s exploration of intricate harmonies, going beyond the simple three-chord structures of many contemporary pop songs of the time.

The song “Ceilings” by Lizzy McAlpine utilizes fairly simple, yet effective, chord changes that are quite common in popular music. This progression primarily takes place in the key of G major, but borrows chords from the parallel minor scale and adds extensions to the chords to add depth and color.

Jimi Hendrix – Castles Made Of Sand – Verse 2

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Chord Progression

F, Am, Em7, F, C, G, F, Am, Em7, F, C, G

Chord Progression Analysis

Here’s the chord progression along with their Roman numeral notation:

F Major (IV), A Minor (vi), E Minor 7 (iii7), F Major (IV), C Major (I), G Major (V), F Major (IV), A Minor (vi), E Minor 7 (iii7), F Major (IV), C Major (I), G Major (V)

Similar Chord Progressions

1. The Beatles – “While My Guitar Gently Weeps” (Verse Chords)
Am (i), Am/G (i), Am/F# (i), Am/F (i), G (VII), D (IV), E (V), E7 (V7)

2. Radiohead – “Exit Music (For a Film)” (Verse Chords)
Am (i), Am/C (i), G (VII), G/F# (VII), F (VI), Fm (vi), E7 (V7), E7sus4 (V7sus4)

Both of these examples show the use of major and minor tonalities and non-diatonic chords within their verse progressions, similar to “Castles Made of Sand.” They also incorporate borrowed chords and variations in bass notes, which contribute to the overall sense of tension and release within their respective chord progressions.

Musical Analysis

Harmonically, this progression features some non-diatonic chords, specifically the E Minor 7, which functions as a borrowed chord from the parallel minor key, C minor. This gives the progression an interesting twist and enhances its sense of tension and release.

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Borrowed chord: E Minor 7 (iii7, from C minor)
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The use of the iv degree, F Major, in the beginning also adds to the tension of the progression – by avoiding the typical tonic chord resolution to I (C Major), the passage is given more momentum, which helps propel it forward.

There’s also a common harmonic cadence known as the plagal cadence (IV – I) when the chords move from F Major to C Major. Moreover, the progression employs the V (G Major), which has a dominant function, creating a perfect authentic cadence (V – I) at the end, providing a sense of harmonic closure.

Overall Analysis

“Castles Made of Sand” by Jimi Hendrix is a psychedelic rock song that features a unique and colorful chord progression, blending major and minor tonalities in a way that creates tension and a sense of longing. The verse consists of a 12-chord progression that builds upon the foundation of the major key of C, even though it starts with the IV chord (F), which contributes to the song’s unusual character. The progression includes borrowed chords from the parallel minor and elements specific to Hendrix’s own style, making it a remarkable piece in terms of its harmonic complexity and eclecticism.

Style Analysis

Jimi Hendrix was known for his remarkably versatile technique, both as an instrumentalist and composer, which is demonstrated in the chord progression. It epitomizes his talent for blending different harmonic elements, such as major and minor tonalities, or extended chords, like Em7. These diverse characteristics contributed to defining the psychedelic and experimental qualities of his music during the 1960s and 70s.

Chords in the Verse 2 section of Castles Made Of Sand by Jimi Hendrix are:

F, Am, Em7, F, C, G, F, Am, Em7, F, C, G