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“Somewhere Only We Know” composed by Keane, is a pop-ballad that is based in the key of A Minor. It makes use of both diatonic and borrowed chords in a modern pop style progression that creates an oscillating feel, with repetition for familiarity and simple melody drawn from the underlying chords.

“Somewhere Only We Know” by Keane is a pop/rock song written in the key of A Major, although the chord progression given seems to be transposed to the key of C Major. It is characterized by its use of repeated motifs and sequenced chord progressions to create a sense of familiarity and typical of the pop genre.

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.

“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.

Keane – Somewhere Only We Know – Pre-Chorus

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Chord Progression

[‘Am’, ‘Em’, ‘Dm’, ‘F’, ‘G’, ‘Am’, ‘Em’, ‘Dm’, ‘F’, ‘G’]

Chord Progression Analysis

In the given pre-chorus, the chords are based in the key of A minor:

A minor (‘vi)

E minor (‘iii)

D minor (‘ii)

F Major (‘IV)

G Major (‘V)

The progression repeats twice. The song mainly stays in the key, with no borrowed chords in the pre-chorus.

“`A minor, E minor, D minor, F Major, G Major“`

Similar Chord Progressions

This chord progression might seem fairly unique due its particular order, however, these chords are very common in pop and rock music. A similar chord progression can be found in “Hallelujah” by Leonard Cohen, which follows a similar cyclical pattern with a sense of unresolved tension, although the order and key is different: C Major (‘IV), A minor (‘vi), F Major (‘IV), G Major (‘V).

Another song with somewhat similar chords is “Don’t Look Back in Anger” by Oasis, though it uses an additional chord and the progression is quite different, it does include the chords: C Major (‘I), D minor (‘ii), A minor (‘vi), G Major (‘V), and F Major (‘IV).

Note that the specific progressions and use of these chords in the context of individual songs can lead to quite different musical effects based on various factors such as melody, rhythm, instrumentation, and song structure.

Musical Analysis

This particular progression (vi-iii-ii-IV-V), is less common but still adheres to the prevalent use of 2-5-1 progressions seen throughout all genres of music. Here, the “Dm-F-G” can be seen as a ii-IV-V, and then the progression cycles back to vi. The shifts between vi-iii and ii-IV provide tension and release within the progression, ultimately resolving on the V chord, G Major, which then leads back to the vi chord, A minor, as the cycle begins anew.

Overall Analysis

“Somewhere Only We Know” by Keane uses a handful of straightforward major and minor chords which contribute to a pop, atmospheric, and emotive sound indicative of the band’s alternative rock aesthetic. The chord progression of the pre-chorus is fairly common and creates a cyclical and slightly unsettled feel that fits well with the song’s lyrical themes of uncertainty and longing for return.

Style Analysis

Keane is known for their reliance on the piano, atmospheric elements, and emotionally charged lyrics and melodies. The chord progression in the pre-chorus contributes to these stylistic elements by creating an emotive and somewhat unresolved atmosphere, fitting for the lyrics’ themes of ambiguity and longing.

Chords in the Pre-chorus section of Somewhere Only We Know by Keane are:

[‘Am’, ‘Em’, ‘Dm’, ‘F’, ‘G’, ‘Am’, ‘Em’, ‘Dm’, ‘F’, ‘G’]