MGMT – Weekend Wars – Verse
Weekend Wars < All Analyses
Chord Progression
Dm, C, G, C, G, F, Dm, C, F, Am, F, Dm, C, G, C, G, F, Dm, C, F, Am, F
Chord Progression Analysis
The verse begins with a Dm (i) chord and moves to C (VII), which is a common progression in a minor key. The G major chord (IV) that follows is a borrowed chord from the parallel major key (D major). This creates a sense of modulation without actually changing the key. The C, G, F section following this creates a non-diatonic loop, adding complexity to the progression.
The progression eventually returns to Dm (i) and repeats using a mixture of diatonic and non-diatonic chords before finally ending the verse on an F major (III) chord, leaving the listener with a sense of resolution in the relative major key. This helps to create a sense of contrast between the verse and chorus, as well as leave the listener wanting more.
Similar Chord Progressions
Musical Analysis
MGMT is known for their use of unconventional chord progressions and song structures, and “Weekend Wars” is no exception. The mixture of diatonic and non-diatonic chords, as well as the borrowed G major chord, give the song a more experimental and psychedelic feel, fitting well within the context of MGMT’s discography. Additionally, the use of a 22-chord progression adds a sense of complexity to the song, challenging the listener’s expectations and giving the song a more distinct identity.
Overall Analysis
“Weekend Wars” by MGMT features a distinctive and slightly unconventional chord progression. The verse is in D minor and consists of 22 chords, providing a unique and somewhat complex harmonic landscape. The majority of the chords used are diatonic, but there are also borrowed chords and other non-diatonic chords which contribute to the song’s unique character.
Chord Progression:
Dm (i), C (VII), G (IV), C (VII), G (IV), F (III), Dm (i), C (VII), F (III), Am (v), F (III), Dm (i), C (VII), G (IV), C (VII), G (IV), F (III), Dm (i), C (VII), F (III), Am (v), F (III)
Dm – D minor
C – C major
G – G major (borrowed chord)
F – F major
Am – A minor
Style Analysis
While it’s difficult to find an exact match for the chord progression used in “Weekend Wars,” there are other songs that utilize a similar combination of diatonic and non-diatonic chords.
1. Radiohead – “Paranoid Android”:
Em (i), D (VII), Amaj7 (IV), C (VI), G (III), F# (II), B (V)
2. Tame Impala – “New Person, Same Old Mistakes”:
Dm (i), F (III), Gm (iv), Bb (VI), F (III), C (VII)
These songs, like “Weekend Wars,” demonstrate a unique and unconventional use of harmony, using combinations of borrowed chords and non-diatonic chords to create a signature sound.
What are the chords in: MGMT – Weekend Wars – Verse?
Dm, C, G, C, G, F, Dm, C, F, Am, F, Dm, C, G, C, G, F, Dm, C, F, Am, F
