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Related Music Theory Alchemy

The chord progression in the chorus of Kali Uchis’ “After The Storm” features a repeating progression of Am7, Bm7, and Eaug that occurs three times, with slight variations in harmony and tonality. It is a unique and interesting progression that creates tension through the use of both minor 7th and augmented chords. The overall style evokes a dreamy, jazzy atmosphere with elements of R&B and soul.

The given chord progression is the Pre-Chorus section of “After The Storm” by Kali Uchis. The chords in this progression are predominantly built on the 1st and 2nd degrees of the minor scale. The recurring use of the Eaug chord injects an interesting and stylish twist into the music.

“In My Life” by The Beatles is in A Major key, and it makes use of both diatonic and non-diatonic chords. The song is notable for its use of various chord trickery such as modal borrowing, secondary dominant, and chromatic bass movement. Additionally, the song is filled with the Beatles’ signatures: a mix of major and minor chords and the use of the VI-IV progression.

The chord progression from the intro of “Undone – The Sweater Song” by Weezer is in the key of G Major and features an interesting mix of chords with an alternative rock flavor. The progression includes a non-diatonic chord (G6#9) and has a nice balance of tension and resolution, giving the song a memorable sound.

“Within You Without You” from The Beatles’ Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band album, composed by George Harrison, is a unique song in the Beatles’ discography. Musically, it truly merges the essence of Indian classical music with traditional Western music techniques. The chord progression is minimal and largely stays around the key of C major, which enhances the song’s drone-like effect, typical in traditional Indian music.

Kali Uchis – After The Storm – Intro

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Chord Progression

Am7, Bm7, Eaug, Am7, Bm7, Eaug

Chord Progression Analysis

“`
Am7 (vi7)
Bm7 (vii7/ii)
Eaug (V+ of ii)
Am7 (vi7)
Bm7 (vii7/ii)
Eaug (V+ of ii)
“`

Similar Chord Progressions

1. Stevie Wonder – “Ribbon in the Sky”
Chord progression:
“`
Em7 (ii7)
F#m7 (iii7)
B7 (V7/IV)
Em7 (ii7)
F#m7 (iii7)
B7 (V7/IV)
“`

2. D’Angelo – “Untitled (How Does It Feel)”
Chord progression:
“`
Bbmaj7 (I)
Am7 (vii7)
D7 (V/ii)
Gm7 (ii7)
C7 (V7)
Fmaj7 (IV)
Fm7 (iv7)
Bb7 (V7)
“`

Musical Analysis

The intro starts with an Am7 chord, which functions as the vi7 in the key of C Major. Following that, we have a Bm7 chord, which is a borrowed chord, functioning as a secondary dominant’s (E7) subdominant chord (vii7/ii) that wants to resolve to E7, but instead we find an Eaug chord. This chord can be seen as V+ of ii, which augments the 5th of the E chord, creating tension and a sense of anticipation. The progression then repeats itself.

Am7 provides a smooth, relaxed atmosphere as it is part of the diatonic chords in C major. The Bm7 and Eaug chords introduce chromaticism and a sense of tension, which adds interest to the harmony. This tension resolves back to Am7, providing a sense of balance in the progression.

Overall Analysis

The chord progression in the intro of “After the Storm” by Kali Uchis showcases a mix of diatonic and chromatic movements, borrowing elements from jazz and R&B. The use of 7th chords and an augmented chord suggests a harmonically rich and colorful tonality, creating an intriguing atmosphere that captures the listener’s attention.

Style Analysis

This progression showcases elements of jazz and R&B, as mentioned earlier. The use of 7th chords is common in both styles, with jazz being known for complex harmonies and extended chords, and R&B sometimes borrowing from jazz to spice up its harmony. The chromatic movement and the borrowed chords enhance the overall richness of the harmony, which is characteristic of these two styles.

Chords in the Intro section of After The Storm by Kali Uchis are:

Am7, Bm7, Eaug, Am7, Bm7, Eaug