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Related Music Theory Alchemy

The chord progression in the intro of “Loner” by Kali Uchis is a mixture of simple diatonic harmony and some more complex non-diatonic chords, which creates a jazzy and ethereal atmosphere. It is a 4-chord progression that resolves on F#m, making it a loop. The style of this progression is reminiscent of the Neo-Soul genre, and it can be found in some other songs across various musical styles.

The chord progression in verse 2 of “Telepatia” by Kali Uchis is a jazz-influenced progression in the key of E minor. It features several extended chords, such as the Em9 and Gmaj7 used throughout, and a dominant chord, B7, which provides tension and resolution in the progression. The G/A chord, which is essentially an A11 chord without the 3rd, also gives the progression a sense of blending major and minor tonalities.

“Tonight, Tonight” by The Smashing Pumpkins draws from the band’s unique style of alternative rock influenced by a distinct palette of harmonic choices. Particularly in the songwriting of Billy Corgan (the band’s primary songwriter), the band tends to use a mix of common and uncommon chords, together with a tendency of exploring different tonalities. Often, the chord changes are driven by guitar inversions, suspensions, or additions.

This chord progression is in the key of Am. The work can be seen as a mix of the Western tonal harmony, incorporating the use of inversions alongside nondiatonic chords. Tame Impala employs the elements of neo-psychedelia with unique chord progressions and arrangements. The alteration between two chords creates a revolving feeling, reinforcing the title “alter ego”.

“Wild Horses” by The Rolling Stones is a rock ballad with a minor tonality and is composed in the key of G major. The song incorporates the use of modal interchange, more commonly referred to as borrowed chords, from the parallel minor. This common technique in rock music contributes to the melancholic and emotionally resonant feeling of the song.

Kali Uchis – Loner – Chorus

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Chord Progression

Amaj7, Abaug, Abm, F#m, Amaj7, Ab, Abm, F#m, Amaj7, Ab, Abm, F#m

Chord Progression Analysis

A Major 7 (I), A Flat Augmented (bVI+), A Flat Minor (bVI-), F Sharp Minor (vi), A Major 7 (I), A Flat (bVI), A Flat Minor (bVI-), F Sharp Minor (vi), A Major 7 (I), A Flat (bVI), A Flat Minor (bVI-), F Sharp Minor (vi)

Borrowed Chords:
“`
A Flat Augmented (bVI+)
A Flat Minor (bVI-)
A Flat (bVI)
“`

Similar Chord Progressions

1. “Put It All on Me” by Ed Sheeran (ft. Ella Mai): [‘Gmaj7’, ‘Bm7’, ‘Em7’, ‘Amaj7’]
2. “Sara Smile” by Hall & Oates: [‘Dmaj7’, ‘Gmaj7’, ‘F#m’, ‘Gmaj7’, ‘Em7’]

While the exact progression in “Loner” is unique, these examples show arrangements with extended chords and the use of the I – vi progression, which are stylistically similar.

Musical Analysis

The progression begins with the tonic, A Major 7, establishing the tonality of the piece. The A Flat Augmented chord creates an interesting juxtaposition, borrowing the bVI+ from the parallel minor scale (A minor). Following this, the Abm chord is the bVI- in relation to the tonic, creating a brief moment of harmonic tension before resolving to the F Sharp Minor (vi) chord.

The Amaj7, Ab, Abm, and F#m repetition adds a sense of familiarity to the progression, while still maintaining its unique quality. The borrowed chords from parallel minor scales bring an added emotional depth and character to the progression.

Overall Analysis

The chord progression in Kali Uchis’ “Loner” features a mix of major, minor, and augmented chords, which contributes to the song’s unique sound and emotional depth. The progression has an unconventional and intriguing quality, while still maintaining a sense of harmonic coherence.

Style Analysis

The chord progression in Kali Uchis’ “Loner” reflects elements of R&B, soul, and jazz. The use of extended chords (such as Amaj7) and borrowed chords from parallel minor scales contribute to the song’s lush, expressive quality commonly found in these genres.

Chords in the Chorus section of Loner by Kali Uchis are:

Amaj7, Abaug, Abm, F#m, Amaj7, Ab, Abm, F#m, Amaj7, Ab, Abm, F#m