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Related Music Theory Alchemy

The chord progression in the chorus of “Endlessly” by Muse is an interesting mix of chords from related keys and chromatic alterations. The overall key of the piece is D minor, but there are some unexpected twists and turns that keep the harmonic journey unique and engaging.

The chorus of Muse’s “Hysteria” displays a mix of chords from the key of C Major and borrowed chords from the parallel minor key (C minor). The chord progression uses a combination of functional harmony mixed with chromatic elements, embodying characteristics of both rock and classical genres.

“Everything In Its Right Place” by Radiohead is a harmonically adventurous piece with an unconventional structure that features a mixture of modal and borrowed chords. The piece has an impressionistic quality influenced by classical lineage, while also regularly employing electronic and synthesized sounds.

“The Long and Winding Road” by The Beatles is an iconic pop ballad renowned for its rich harmonic content. It employs both modal interchange and secondary dominants, thus securing its place as an exemplary piece in pop music harmony. Its dominant tonality is D Major, however, it makes use of many borrowed chords.

“Today” by The Smashing Pumpkins, was released in 1993 on their second album, “Siamese Dream.” The song is classic-’90s alternative rock with its layered guitars and emotionally raw lyrics. key is “E minor.”

Muse – Endlessly – Verse 1

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Chord Progression

Asus4, Am, Asus4, Am, Bm, E7, Asus4, Am, Asus4, Am, Bm, E7

Chord Progression Analysis

`Asus4 (IVsus4) – Am (IVm) – Asus4 (IVsus4) – Am (IVm) – Bm (v) – E7 (I7) – Asus4 (IVsus4) – Am (IVm) – Asus4 (IVsus4) – Am (IVm) – Bm (v) – E7 (I7)`

_Borrowed Chords:_
`None`

Similar Chord Progressions

Though unique to Muse, the progression does bear some similarities to other works in terms of specific aspects of the progression itself.

1. Radiohead – “Exit Music (For a Film)”:
`Am (i) – E (V) – Bm (iv) – D (VI) – G (IX) – E (V) – Am (i)`

2. Coldplay – “Warning Sign”:
`Asus2 (IVsus2) – Amaj7 (IVmaj7) – E (I) – Asus2 (IVsus2) – Amaj7 (IVmaj7) – G#m (iii) – A (IV)`

These examples share some aspects of Muse’s chord progression, such as the use of suspended chords, shifting from minor to major chords, and interweaving tension and resolution. However, the overall progression in “Endlessly” still remains distinctive amongst similar artists.

Musical Analysis

The consistent alternation between the Asus4 and Am chords at the beginning of the progression creates a sense of tension and suspension through the raised 4th (which makes the Asus4), in contrast to the more stable Am chord. The subsequent movement from Am to Bm and later to E7 provides tension and resolution. The E7 resolves back to Am, which occurs at the beginning of the verse, effectively tying the progression together as a cyclical pattern.

Overall Analysis

The song in question, “Endlessly” by Muse, is a reflective and emotional piece, featuring a fairly unique chord progression. The verse’s chord progression is not commonly heard in popular music, giving it a distinct sound that sets it apart from other songs. The use of suspended chords, the shift from Am to Bm, and the resolution to the E7 chord give the piece a floating, ethereal feel.

Style Analysis

The chord progression’s dreamlike sound and suspended chords create a certain atmosphere that is characteristic of the style we see in Muse’s music, especially in their romantic, introspective songs. In general, Muse is known for their experimental approach to musical styles and chord progressions, and “Endlessly” is no exception.

Chords in the Verse 1 section of Endlessly by Muse are:

Asus4, Am, Asus4, Am, Bm, E7, Asus4, Am, Asus4, Am, Bm, E7