Jimi Hendrix – Hey Joe – Verse 2
Hey Joe < All Analyses
Chord Progression
C, G, D, A, E, E, C, G, D, A, E, E, C, G, D, A, E, E, C, G, D, A, E, E
Chord Progression Analysis
C Major (I) – G Major (V) – D Major (II) – A Major (VI) – E Major (III)
Similar Chord Progressions
1. Procol Harum – “A Whiter Shade of Pale”
Chord Progression: C Major (I) – Bb Major (bVII) – F Major (IV) – G Major (V) – D Major (II) – A Major (VI) – E Major (III)
2. The Beatles – “Let It Be”
Chord Progression: C Major (I) – G Major (V) – A Minor (vi) – F Major (IV) – C Major (I) – G Major (V) – C Major (I)
3. Leonard Cohen – “Hallelujah”
Chord Progression: C Major (I) – A Minor (vi) – C Major (I) – E Major (III) – F Major (IV) – G Major (V) – C Major (I) – G Major (V)
These examples show similar use of circle of fifths progressions, with some variations in the chords used, creating a similarly recognizable flow and sense of resolution.
Musical Analysis
The chord progression in “Hey Joe” is a modulation of the circle of fifths. The circle of fifths is a sequence of chords with roots that are a fifth apart. In this case, the root movement is a descending fifth (or ascending fourth). This pattern is commonly found in many genres, particularly in jazz and classical music. The simplicity and familiarity of the progression make it easy to memorize and facilitates smooth voice leading, creating a sense of resolution from one chord to the next.
Overall Analysis
“Hey Joe” is a famous song by Jimi Hendrix, which features a simple yet very effective chord progression throughout its verses. It has a five-chord progression, which is C, G, D, A, and E. This progression creates a strong and recognizable flow, thus contributing to the song’s iconic status.
Style Analysis
“Hey Joe” is a great example of the blues-rock style, pioneered by Hendrix himself. The simple, descending circle of fifths progression has influences from blues, jazz, and folk music. This, combined with Jimi Hendrix’s signature guitar playing style, which featured heavy use of distortion, legato phrasing, and various other techniques, contributed to the development and popularization of the blues-rock and psychedelic rock genres.
What are the chords in: Jimi Hendrix – Hey Joe – Verse 2?
C, G, D, A, E, E, C, G, D, A, E, E, C, G, D, A, E, E, C, G, D, A, E, E
