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Related Music Theory Alchemy

The chord progression for the verse of “Kids” by MGMT is a simple and diatonic progression in the key of A major, following the vi-IV-I-V pattern. It is common in pop music and creates a sense of tension and release throughout the progression. The chords are played using predominantly major and minor triads, with an inversion in the V chord (E/G#).

The chord progression in the outro of MGMT’s “Weekend Wars” is a fairly simple one in terms of harmony, but it showcases some interesting movements between the chords. The progression has a major feeling and centers around the C major key. It sees a modulation to the key of F major during the Bb/F and Bb chords, and then returns to its original key. There are no borrowed chords present in this particular progression.

“Every Day Is Exactly The Same” by Nine Inch Nails utilizes a unique four-chord cycle in its chorus – ‘E’, ‘A’, ‘C’, ‘G’. The song is in the key of E minor, and therefore, the functional analysis would interpret this progression as i-IV-bVI-III. The bVI and III are borrowed chords from the parallel major scale. This chord progression creates a moody atmosphere that aligns with the overall melancholic and introspective theme of the song.

“Get You” by Daniel Caesar is a soulful R&B ballad featuring a smooth and emotive chord progression that is both melancholic and uplifting. The progression is derived from the key of D major, but features a borrowed chord from its parallel minor key, D minor, which adds a unique flair to the song. Daniel Caesar’s vocal performance, accompanied by soulful instrumentation, creates a sense of nostalgia and emotional evocation that is characteristic of the R&B genre.

“Kiss” is a funk, synthpop song written, produced and performed by Prince. The song’s structure runs around a simple, repeated two-bar eight-note pattern, but what’s odd is the song’s key. Dotting between E and D, it’s hard to pin down definitively, but the song seems to be written in the ambiguous key of E Mixolydian/D major.

MGMT – Kids – Chorus

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Chord Progression

F#m, D, A, E/G#, F#m, D, A, E/G#, F#m, D, A, E/G#, F#m, D, A, E/G#, F#m, D, A, E/G#, F#m, D, A, E/G#, F#m, D, A, E/G#, F#m, D, A, E/G#

Chord Progression Analysis

F# Minor (vi) – D Major (IV) – A Major (I) – E/G# Major (V6)

“`
F#m (vi) – D (IV) – A (I) – E/G# (V6)
“`

Similar Chord Progressions

1. Coldplay – “Viva La Vida”:
F#m (vi) – D (IV) – A (I) – E (V)

2. Journey – “Don’t Stop Believin’”:
D Major (I) – Bm (vi) – G (IV) – A (V)

3. The Cranberries – “Zombie”:
Em (vi) – C(IV) – G(I) – D(V)

4. OneRepublic – “Apologize”:
Cm (vi) – Ab (IV) – Eb (I) – Bb (V)

These examples share similar chord progressions in either the same or different keys. The songs listed also showcase the ubiquitous nature of the vi-IV-I-V progression in popular music across different eras and genres. The chord sequences are known for eliciting an emotional response and creating a sense of familiarity with the listener.

Musical Analysis

The progression starts on the relative minor (F#m), creating a somewhat somber and contemplative feel before moving to the uplifting D Major chord. The shift to the tonic (A Major) establishes the tonal center and provides a sense of resolution. The final E/G# chord, with G# in the bass, adds tension and anticipation, propelling the progression back to the beginning. The movement from the F#m to D (vi-IV) is a common progression in popular music, and the overall vi-IV-I-V pattern is often associated with a sense of nostalgia or wistfulness. The repetition of this sequence throughout the chorus aids in making it memorable and engaging.

Overall Analysis

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.

Style Analysis

In terms of style, “Kids” by MGMT showcases their electronic pop and psychedelic rock influences. The song features simple, yet impactful melodies and harmonies, coupled with a driving beat and layered synths, creating a retro-futuristic soundscape. The chord progression’s repeated nature and the balance between minor and major chords are typical in pop and rock genres, while the extensive use of synthesizers and electronic elements lends itself to a modern and psychedelic feel.

Chords in the Chorus section of Kids by MGMT are:

F#m, D, A, E/G#, F#m, D, A, E/G#, F#m, D, A, E/G#, F#m, D, A, E/G#, F#m, D, A, E/G#, F#m, D, A, E/G#, F#m, D, A, E/G#, F#m, D, A, E/G#