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“Electric Feel” by MGMT is a funky and psychedelic pop song with an infectious groove and memorable hooks. The chorus consists of a chord progression that features a variety of diatonic chords along with a borrowed chord from the parallel minor key. The progression is based around oscillations between minor and major tonalities, which adds a sense of tension and release. This, combined with the rhythmic syncopation and psychedelic production, contributes to the iconic and unique character of the song.

The chord progression in the chorus of “Kids” by MGMT is a repetitive and catchy sequence that features four chords, showcasing MGMT’s characteristic electronic pop and psychedelic rock sound. The progression is in the key of A Major, and the chords follow a vi-IV-I-V pattern.

The chord progression in the verse of Beck’s “Paper Tiger” can be considered a combination of common and non-diatonic chords. The progression moves from a major chord to its dominant 7th and then resolves to the relative minor. Stylistically, this progression is used in rock, pop, and jazz music to create tension and resolution while maintaining a sense of movement or flow.

“When I Was Your Man” by Bruno Mars is in the key of C major. It is a ballad with a piano-led instrumentation, backed by Bruno’s powerful and emotive vocals. The melody and chords are relatively simple, but the lingering tone and the poignant lyrics create an emotionally resonant track. A common feature in this piece, as well as many pop songs in general, is the use of borrowed chords.

“Tonight, Tonight” by The Smashing Pumpkins is a rock song happy to embrace classical music tropes. An orchestral, string-heavy arrangement propels the song, surrounding the listener with a rich tapestry of sound. The grandiose sound of the full orchestra is bolstered by the band’s dual guitars and Billy Corgan’s characteristic singing.

MGMT – Electric Feel – Verse 1

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Chord Progression

Am7, Em, F, G, Em, F, Am7, Em, F, G, Em, F, Am7, Em, F, G, Em, F, Am7, Em, F, G, Em, F

Chord Progression Analysis

Here is the analysis of the chord progression, including the full chord names and their Roman numerals:

Am7 (i), Em (v), F (VI), G (VII), Em (v), F (VI), Am7 (i), Em (v), F (VI), G (VII), Em (v), F (VI), Am7 (i), Em (v), F (VI), G (VII), Em (v), F (VI), Am7 (i), Em (v), F (VI), G (VII), Em (v), F (VI)

`Borrowed chord: None for this progression`

Similar Chord Progressions

1. “Breathe” by Pink Floyd
Verse: Em9 (v), A (IV), Em9 (v), A (IV), Em9 (v), A (IV), Em9 (v), A (IV)

2. “Can’t Stop” by Red Hot Chili Peppers
Verse: Em9 (i), D (VII), Am (iv), Fmaj7 (VI)

3. “Gravity” by John Mayer
Verse: G7 (VII7), Cmaj7 (I), Em7 (iii), D (II)

While these examples may not have the exact same chord progression as “Electric Feel,” they share similarities in cyclical progressions and atmospheric vibes. The blend of major and minor chords in these progressions creates emotional depth and helps evoke different moods within listeners.

Musical Analysis

The verse progression begins with the tonic minor, Am7 (i), which sets the overall minor tonality. The progression then moves to Em (v), acting as a minor dominant. The following chords, F (VI) and G (VII), represent a temporary shift away from the minor tonality to the relative major. This shift adds a sense of brightness to the verse. The repetition of this pattern creates a cyclic, hypnotic feel, with the chords continually building tension and releasing back to the tonic minor.

Overall Analysis

The chord progression for the verse of “Electric Feel” by MGMT is based in the key of C major. The progression mainly revolves around the use of i, v, VI, and VII chords. The song has a hypnotic, cyclic feel that is characteristic of the neo-psychedelic genre, with touches of funk and dance music elements.

Style Analysis

“Electric Feel” by MGMT showcases a blend of neo-psychedelic, funk, and dance music elements. The chord progression is rather simple, which highlights the groove and rhythm. The airiness of Am7’s sound and the alternate minor-major shift evoke a dreamy, kaleidoscopic atmosphere that is characteristic of the neo-psychedelic style.

Chords in the Verse 1 section of Electric Feel by MGMT are:

Am7, Em, F, G, Em, F, Am7, Em, F, G, Em, F, Am7, Em, F, G, Em, F, Am7, Em, F, G, Em, F