Music Theory Alchemy

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“A Star is Born – Shallow” is primarily in the key of G major and has a fairly simple and straightforward chord progression with an intriguing twist toward the end. The song features a common I-V-vi-IV chord progression with an occasional ii-chord (Am) substituting for the vi-chord (Em). Then, it introducess a borrowed chord (Bm) which creates an interesting, unexpected color in the harmony.

“A Star Is Born – Shallow” by Misc Soundtrack uses common chords found in pop music and combines them in a fresh way. The progression makes use of diatonic chords and even includes a borrowed chord from the parallel minor key. It showcases a feasible balance of tension and resolution, often transitioning through a variety of chord inversions to add color and depth to the harmonies. The song moves around the circle of fifths, which allows for smooth transitions between keys.

The chord progression in the refrain of MGMT’s “Weekend Wars” is an intriguing combination of diatonic and borrowed chords. It primarily features chords from the key of A minor and C major, with some noticeable out-of-key chords that add color and tension to the progression.

“My Name Is Jonas” by Weezer is an alternative rock song with a memorable guitar riff and chord progression. The song features a dynamic structure with a mix of different sections, including the refrain, which we will analyze here. Written in the key of G major, the chord progression presents a mixture of chords from both the major and the minor modes, giving it an interesting and varied sound.

Misc Soundtrack – A Star Is Born – Shallow – Refrain

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Chord Progression

[‘Em’, ‘D’, ‘G’, ‘C’, ‘G’, ‘D’, ‘Em’, ‘D’, ‘G’, ‘C’, ‘G’, ‘D’]

Chord Progression Analysis

The song’s refrain sticks to the chords of G major, E minor, C major, and D major. These chords can be labeled with roman numerals as follows, for each of their respective appearances in the refrain:

‘Emin (vi) – Dmaj (V) – Gmaj (I) – Cmaj (IV)
Gmaj (I) – Dmaj (V) – Emin (vi) – Dmaj (V)
Gmaj (I) – Cmaj (IV) – Gmaj (I) – Dmaj (V)’

It’s important to note the consistent use of the classic I – IV – V progression in this song, which is a staple of popular music because of the satisfying tension and release it creates.

Similar Chord Progressions

Many popular songs contain similar chord progressions to “Shallow”. Here are few examples:

– The Beatles’ “Let It Be”: ‘Cmaj (I) – Gmaj (V) – Am (vi) – Fmaj (IV)’
– Green Day’s “When I Come Around”: ‘Gmaj (I) – Dmajor (V) – Em (vi) – Cmajor (IV)’
– Maroon 5’s “She Will Be Loved”: ‘Cmaj (I) – Gmaj (V) – D (V/V) – Emin (vi)’
– Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believing”: ‘Em (vi) – B (V/V) – G (I) – D (V) – A (IV) – C#m (vi/vi)’

As shown in these examples, the I – V – vi – IV progression used in “Shallow” is a common and much-loved formula in popular music across genres and generations.

Musical Analysis

Musically, the four-chord progression in “Shallow” is simple yet extremely effective. Its use of the minor vi chord adds a touch of sadness and longing, which is resolved by the bright and stable root I and IV chords. In addition, the V chord serves as a musical turning point that adds tension, leading seamlessly back into the vi chord for the next verse. This cyclical progression feels natural and satisfying to the ear, contributing to the overall emotional impact of the song.

Overall Analysis

The song “A Star Is Born – Shallow” is written in the key of G Major, giving it a bright, uplifting tonality. This is a common key in pop and rock music for its simplicity and ease of play for guitarists and vocalists alike. The repetitive chord progression consistently lands on familiar territory for listeners, contributing to the song’s catchiness.

Style Analysis

Pop acoustic ballads like “Shallow” often use a consistent, straightforward chord progression to underpin memorable melodies and emotionally driven lyrics. This song’s mix of minor and major chords contributes to its moody, poignant vibe, while its relatively easy playability helps it to resonate with a wide range of listeners and musicians.

Chords in the Refrain section of A Star Is Born – Shallow by Misc Soundtrack are:

[‘Em’, ‘D’, ‘G’, ‘C’, ‘G’, ‘D’, ‘Em’, ‘D’, ‘G’, ‘C’, ‘G’, ‘D’]