Music Theory Alchemy

Search

Related Music Theory Alchemy

“Castles Made Of Sand” is a song by Jimi Hendrix, featured on the 1967 album “Axis: Bold as Love.” The chord progression in the verse is notable for its use of both diatonic and chromatic chords, creating a complex harmonic structure that reflects the intricate guitar work and emotive lyrics of the song.

“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.

“Kiss” by Prince is a classic example showcasing Prince’s unique and complex songwriting abilities. The song is written in the key of A major. The distinctive funk rock style is primarily expressed via dominant and suspended chords. This combined with Prince’s rhythmically tight and syncopated guitar playing gives the song its infectious groove.

The song “Every Day Is Exactly The Same” by Nine Inch Nails has a dark and moody atmosphere, characterized by the repetitive chord progression that sets the gloomy tone. This prolific use of chords throughout snippets of the song creates a musical portrait of monotony and disillusion which is reflective of the song’s title and lyrics. Looking at the chords provided from the second verse, this mood is accomplished through the consistent use of minor tonalities and alternation between two power chords – E and C.

The chord progression in Verse 2 of “Get You” by Daniel Caesar features some interesting and often non-diatonic chords. It provides a smooth and lush sound that complements the rest of the song. This progression shows influences from R&B and neo-soul genres, which often use extended and borrowed chords.

Jimi Hendrix – Castles Made Of Sand – Verse 2

Add To Favorites Remove From Favorites

< All Analyses

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.

“`
Borrowed chord: E Minor 7 (iii7, from C minor)
“`

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