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Related Music Theory Alchemy

The chord progression in the bridge of Kali Uchis’ “After The Storm” consists of two alternating chords, Amaj7 and Dmaj7, played repeatedly. This progression is simple yet effective, creating a smooth and mellow atmosphere that matches well with the song’s overall neo-soul and R&B vibe. The arrangement is in the key of A Major and has a diatonic structure without any borrowed chords.

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.

“Closer” by Nine Inch Nails, released in 1994, is a well-known song distinguished by its catchy synth lines, explosive percussion, and provocative lyricism. Hinged on a distinct, repeating synth bassline, the song employs a fundamental chord progression epitomizing the alternative rock and industrial genres. Its tonal centre revolves around the key of C# minor.

The song “Dead Flowers” by The Rolling Stones is a classic rock tune that is characterized by its simple yet effective chord progressions. The key of this song is D Major. This song utilizes mostly major chords (D, A, and G), and it has a strong emphasis on the I-IV-V chord progression, a staple in many rock, blues, and pop music.

“Tiny Dancer” is an iconic song by Elton John from his 1971 album Madman Across the Water. Written in the key of C Major, it genre-wise fits the mold of pop music from the early 1970s. Structurally, the song displays unique nuances, especially in its pre-chorus, which shifts the tonal center and incorporates some borrowed chords from parallel minor scales.

Kali Uchis – After The Storm – Pre-Chorus

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Chord Progression

Am7, Bm7, Eaug, Am7, Bm7, Eaug, Am7, Bm7, Eaug, Am7, Bm7, Eaug

Chord Progression Analysis

“`
A minor 7 (i7)
B minor 7 (ii7)
E augmented (V+)
A minor 7 (i7)
B minor 7 (ii7)
E augmented (V+)
A minor 7 (i7)
B minor 7 (ii7)
E augmented (V+)
A minor 7 (i7)
B minor 7 (ii7)
E augmented (V+)
“`

Similar Chord Progressions

1. “Kiss of Life” by Sade:
“`
Am7 (i7)
Bm7 (ii7)
CMaj7 (IIIΔ7)
D9sus4 (IV9sus4)
“`
2. “Seaweed” by Mount Eerie:
“`
Am7 (i7)
Bm7 (ii7)
Dmaj7 (IVΔ7)
Gmaj7 (VIIΔ7)
“`

These examples from other artists both feature the use of Am7 and Bm7 chords, suggesting a shared influence with Kali Uchis’ chord progression in “After The Storm.” However, these other artists choose to resolve the tension created by these chords differently than Kali Uchis, incorporating different chords in their progressions to create a unique sound.

Musical Analysis

The Am7 and Bm7 chords suggest a typical i7-ii7 progression in the minor key. However, the use of the Ea(Raised fifth) chord adds an unexpected and more complex harmonic feel to the music. It can be heard as a V+ chord (dominant augmented), which creates tension and resolves back to the i7 chord, giving the progression a sense of continuous movement and anticipation.

Overall Analysis

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.

Style Analysis

Kali Uchis’ use of the Eaug chord demonstrates her inclination towards experimenting with harmony and employing non-diatonic chords in her music. Furthermore, the repetition of this distinctive sequence gives the pre-chorus a strong sense of identity within the context of the overall song.

Chords in the Pre-chorus section of After The Storm by Kali Uchis are:

Am7, Bm7, Eaug, Am7, Bm7, Eaug, Am7, Bm7, Eaug, Am7, Bm7, Eaug