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Related Music Theory Alchemy

“Purple Haze” by Jimi Hendrix is a classic example of psychedelic rock and blues-infused music from the late 1960s. This particular chord progression, found in Verse 2, demonstrates Hendrix’s innovative approach to harmony and showcases his integration of blues and rock influences.

Chord Progression Analysis (Roman Numerals):
E7#9 (I), G (bIII), A (IV), E (I)

Borrowed Chord:
`G (bIII)` – This chord is borrowed from the parallel minor key of E minor.

The Wind Cries Mary by Jimi Hendrix is a classic rock ballad written in the key of F major, based around a somewhat simple, yet effective, chord progression. There are a few borrowed chords and modulations that add to the harmonic complexity and characteristic guitar work by Hendrix. The song’s structure consists of a verse, followed by a brief pre-chorus, and a chorus before repeating.

The Sound Of Silence by Simon & Garfunkel, released in 1964, is a solid example of folk rock genre transitioning into what we now know as classic rock. The chord progression is straightforward yet powerful, and it perfectly complements the beautifully written lyrics and evocative vocal harmonies. Furthermore, the song is written in A minor, a key that is often associated with sadness, which enhances the melancholic and introspective feelings conveyed by the lyrics.

“Right Where It Belongs” by Nine Inch Nails features a non-diatonic chord progression that creates a sense of tension and resolution. The progression makes use of borrowed chords from parallel keys, contributing to its distinctive sound. The overall key of the song is D minor.

“Exit Music (For a Film)” by Radiohead is a song characterized by a strong sense of melancholy and dark ambiance. The harmonic movement creates tension through the use of chromaticism, borrowed chords, and non-diatonic notes. In the verse progression, there is a mixture of minor and major chords, along with added tones that enhance the complexity and mood of the music.

Jimi Hendrix – Purple Haze – Verse 1

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Chord Progression

E7#9, G, A, E

Chord Progression Analysis

E7#9 (I7#9) – G (bIII) – A (IV) – E (I)

“`E7#9 is a borrowed chord from the parallel minor (E minor)“`

Similar Chord Progressions

1. “All Along the Watchtower” – Jimi Hendrix
Dm7 (i7) – Fmaj7 (#IIIΔ7) – G7 (IV7) – Dm (i)

2. “Sunshine of Your Love” – Cream
D7 (I7) – G (IV) – Ab (bV) – G (IV) – D (I)

3. “Black Magic Woman” – Santana
Dm7 (i7) – Gm7 (iv7) – Dm7 (i7) – Am7 (v7)

4. “Hey Joe” – Jimi Hendrix
C (I) – G (V) – D (II) – A (VI) – E (III)

Musical Analysis

The chord progression has a strong blues influence, especially evident in the use of the dominant 7#9 chord, also known as the “Hendrix Chord.” This chord creates tension and dissonance, giving the song a distinctively bluesy and psychedelic sound. The non-diatonic G major chord (bIII) adds a sense of chromaticism and unpredictability. The progression then resolves to the more traditional IV (A major) and I (E major) chords, giving it a sort of “blues-rock” feel. This combination creates a unique and memorable sound.

Overall Analysis

“Purple Haze” by Jimi Hendrix is a classic rock song centered around the blues and psychedelic rock styles. The verse features an interesting and unconventional chord progression, which adds to the distinctive sound of the piece. The verse progression itself consists of four chords: E7#9, G, A, and E.

Style Analysis

The style of “Purple Haze” is heavily influenced by blues, but with Hendrix’s unique twist. He incorporates innovative guitar techniques, such as heavy use of distorted guitar tones, feedback, and extensive use of the whammy bar. These elements give the song its raw and aggressive feel, while also adding a psychedelic edge. Overall, this is an excellent example of the blending of blues, rock, and psychedelic styles characteristic of Hendrix’s music.

Chords in the Verse 1 section of Purple Haze by Jimi Hendrix are:

E7#9, G, A, E