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Related Music Theory Alchemy

“Whole Lotta Love” by Led Zeppelin is a classic rock song that was released in 1969. The song features a signature riff that has become an iconic part of rock and roll history. The chorus of the song features a chord progression based on the alternating pattern of E and D Major chords, creating a groove that is both driving and catchy.

The chord progression in verse 4 of “Since I’ve Been Loving You” has a striking mix of diatonic chords and chromatic chords that borrow from different modes, creating a unique and expressive progression found in the blues rock style. The progression features a predominantly minor tonality, with some tension points provided by the dominant seventh and major seventh chords.

“Creep” by Radiohead is a song that features a well-known four-chord progression throughout the verses. This progression is G – B – C – Cm, which is often considered one of the factors that contribute to the song’s memorable and emotional quality. The chord progression helps create a melancholic and haunting atmosphere in the song. This song is notably influenced by alternative rock and grunge styles from the early 90s.

“Buddy Holly” is a song by Weezer with an upbeat, pop-rock feel. It exists in the key of A major and showcases a recurring chord progression in its verse consisting of F#m, E/G#, and A.

“Since I’ve Been Loving You” by Led Zeppelin is a slow-tempo blues-rock song featuring a sophisticated and expressive chord progression that falls predominantly within the C minor key, standing out from the more traditional blues structures. The chords in the verse display a creative use of borrowed chords and chromaticism, contributing to the song’s moody and emotionally-evocative atmosphere. The progression is less common in rock music, which is what makes it characteristic of Led Zeppelin’s innovative musical explorations.

Led Zeppelin – Whole Lotta Love – Verse 1

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Chord Progression

D, E, D, E, D, E, D, E, D, E, D, E, D, E, D, E, D

Chord Progression Analysis

D Major (I) – E Major (II)
Note: This chord progression features no borrowed chords.

Similar Chord Progressions

1. Song: “Smoke on the Water” by Deep Purple.
Chord Progression: G Minor (i) – B♭ Major (III) – C Major (IV) – G Minor (i)

2. Song: “Sunshine Of Your Love” by Cream
Chord Progression: D Major (I) – A♭7 (♭V7) – G Major (IV)

Musical Analysis

The verse of “Whole Lotta Love” has a distinct rock riff-based structure. The repetitive use of D and E chords is played over a driving bass and drum rhythm, adding to the overall energy of the song. The focus of the verse is the memorable guitar riff, which consists of syncopated rhythm patterns and is emphasized by the two-chord structure. Additionally, the D-E progression is an unusual and bold choice for a rock song, as it includes a major second motion, which produces a sense of tension.

Overall Analysis

The chord progression in the verse 1 of “Whole Lotta Love” by Led Zeppelin features just two chords: D and E. This fairly simple progression, used repetitively throughout the verse, creates a strong and energetic foundation for the song. The style of the song reflects 1960s heavy rock, and the simplicity of the chord progression adds to the rawness and drive of the music.

Style Analysis

“Whole Lotta Love” is a blues-influenced hard rock song that heavily features lead singer Robert Plant’s strong vocal delivery and Jimmy Page’s power chords and guitar riffs. The chord progression and riff played in the verse represent a style that was pioneered by the British rock bands in the late 1960s. It is characterized by heavy distortion, amplified sound, and aggressive guitar work.

Chords in the Verse 1 section of Whole Lotta Love by Led Zeppelin are:

D, E, D, E, D, E, D, E, D, E, D, E, D, E, D, E, D