Jimi Hendrix – The Wind Cries Mary – Verse 3
The Wind Cries Mary < All Analyses
Chord Progression
C, B, Bb, F, C, B, Bb, F, C, B, Bb, F, G, Bb, Eb, E, F, G, Bb, Eb, E, F, Eb/G, E/G#, F/A
Chord Progression Analysis
C Major (I), B Major (V/vi), Bb Major (bVII), F Major (IV),
C Major (I), B Major (V/vi), Bb Major (bVII), F Major (IV),
C Major (I), B Major (V/vi), Bb Major (bVII), F Major (IV),
G Major (V), Bb Major (bVII), Eb Major (bIII), E Major (III),
F Major (IV), G Major (V), Bb Major (bVII), Eb Major (bIII),
E Major (III), F Major (IV), Eb Major/G (bIII/1st inversion), E Major/G# (III/1st inversion), F Major/A (IV/1st inversion)
`Borrowed Chords: B Major, Bb Major, Eb Major`
Similar Chord Progressions
1. The Beatles – “While My Guitar Gently Weeps”
Am (i), A (V/III), G (bVII), D (IV), E (V), G#o (viio/v), C#m (iii), C#m (iii)
2. Radiohead – “Karma Police”
A minor (i), A minor/Maj7 (i/Maj7), A7 (V/IV), D (IV), G (bVII), F#m7b5 (viø), C (bIII), E (V)
In these examples, both The Beatles and Radiohead employ borrowed chords and chromatic harmony to create a unique and evocative sound, similar to “The Wind Cries Mary” by Jimi Hendrix.
Musical Analysis
This chord progression showcases Hendrix’s mastery of chromatic harmony. He effectively uses borrowed chords, such as the B Major, Bb Major, and Eb Major, to create tension that resolves back to the diatonic chords (C, F, and G). The repeated pattern of moving down by half-steps from C to B to Bb helps create a smooth progression and gives the verse a sense of direction. The use of first inversion chords in the final series of chords (Eb/G, E/G#, and F/A) adds further harmonic interest and supports the melody.
Overall Analysis
“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.
Style Analysis
Hendrix’s chord progression in this verse blends elements of blues, rock, and pop. The borrowed chords and chromatic harmony are reminiscent of the blues tradition, while the strong sense of tonality and diatonic resolution exhibit traits of rock and pop music. The simplicity of the primary chords (C, F, and G) is contrasted by the complexity of the borrowed chords, creating a unique sound that is characteristic of Hendrix’s style.
What are the chords in: Jimi Hendrix – The Wind Cries Mary – Verse 3?
C, B, Bb, F, C, B, Bb, F, C, B, Bb, F, G, Bb, Eb, E, F, G, Bb, Eb, E, F, Eb/G, E/G#, F/A
