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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.

“Feeling Good” by Muse is a cover of the song originally written by Anthony Newley and Leslie Bricusse for the 1964 musical “The Roar of the Greasepaint – The Smell of the Crowd”. Muse’s version is characterized by its distinct blend of jazz, rock, and pop influences, with strong orchestration and stylistically unique elements that give the song a modern edge while still paying homage to its classic roots.

“Wild Horses” by the Rolling Stones is performed in the key of G major. However, the initial chord progression beginning on B minor gives it a modal feel, specifically borrowing chords from G Lydian mode (IV of D Major). It’s an interesting mixture of folky rock with a touch of the blues, and the chord progression is largely based around the typical I-IV-V progression found in many rock songs, but with many deviations and additions.

Key: G Major

“Every Day Is Exactly The Same” by Nine Inch Nails is primarily composed in the key of E minor. The song consists of four sections: Verse 1, Chorus, Verse 2, and Bridge. The chord progressions in the song are relatively simple, with a distinct alternation between E and C chords in the verses, while the chorus and bridge sections feature a broader range of chords such as A, C, and G.

Chord Progression Analysis (Verse 2):
E minor (i), C major (VI), E minor (i), C major (VI), E minor (i), C major (VI), G major (III), F major (♭VII; borrowed chord from E Phrygian), E minor (i)

*G major (III) and F major (♭VII) are both non-diatonic chords in E minor, with the F major chord being borrowed from the E Phrygian mode.

“All My Loving” by The Beatles is a mid-tempo pop song written in the key of E minor for the verse and D Major for the bridge and outro, featuring a distinct, upbeat walking bassline. The grey, almost mournful verses, along with the brighter, major-toned bridges and chorus, create a juxtaposition of feelings within the piece. The bridge also highlights The Beatles’ use of secondary dominants and chromaticism. Concluding in the tonic key of D Major, the song has an interesting interplay between Em and D Major throughout, which could be perceived as a Em: i, VI, III, II and D: vi, V7, I, vi, IV, ii, I progression.

Muse – Endlessly – Verse 2

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Chord Progression

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

Chord Progression Analysis

Asus4 (IVsus4) – Am (i) – Asus4 (IVsus4) – Am (i) – Bm (ii) – E7 (V7) – Asus4 (IVsus4) – Am (i) – Asus4 (IVsus4) – Am (i) – Bm (ii) – E7 (V7)

“`Borrowed Chord: Bm (ii) from the parallel major key“`

Similar Chord Progressions

1. Radiohead – “Exit Music (For a Film)”
Cmaj7 (I) – Bm (ii) – Em (iii) – G (V) – Fmaj7 (IV) – Am (vi)
2. Coldplay – “Trouble”
Am (i) – Asus4 (IVsus4) – Am (i) – G (III) – F (VI) – G (III)

Both of these examples feature a mix of major and minor chords, along with the use of borrowed and suspended chords to create a more emotionally complex sound. Moreover, the cyclical nature of the chord progressions and the use of tension and release create a sense of anticipation, drawing listeners in and evoking an emotional response.

Musical Analysis

The chord progression starts with alternating between Asus4 and Am, creating tension and release within the music. This back and forth movement gives the chords an unsettled feeling, which contributes to the overall melancholic character of the piece. The Bm chord, which is borrowed from the parallel major key, adds an element of surprise and contributes to the harmonic richness of the progression. The E7 chord acts as a dominant, leading the listener back to the tonic, Am. This cyclical nature of the progression makes it quite catchy and memorable.

Overall Analysis

The chord progression in Muse’s “Endlessly” from Verse 2 is a mix of diatonic chords and a borrowed chord from the parallel major key. The progression has a melancholic feel, utilizing suspended chords to create tension and release. The use of both minor and major chords provides a balanced sound, giving the piece its unique character.

Style Analysis

Muse is known for their progressive rock style, often blending elements of classical music, electronic music, and heavy rock. The use of suspended chords, borrowed chords, and the minor key contributes to the atmospheric and intense sound often associated with the band’s music. This progression in “Endlessly” showcases their ability to craft harmonically rich and emotive music.

Chords in the Verse 2 section of Endlessly by Muse are:

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