Music Theory Alchemy

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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.

Muse’s “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” is a rock interpretation of the classic 1967 pop song “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” by Frankie Valli, which has been covered by various artists in different styles. The chord progression of the chorus is characterized by a series of diatonic chords, predominant in Western pop music. This progression follows a typical 1950’s “doowop” pattern present in countless pop and rock songs, utilizing the familiar circle of fourths movement (Dm-G-C) and establishing a straightforward harmonic rhythm.

Chord Progression Analysis with Roman Numerals (borrowed chords in code block):

D minor (iv) – G major (VII) – C major (I) – A minor (vi) – D minor (iv) – G major (VII) – C major (I) – A major (V/vi) – D minor (iv) – G major (VII) – C major (I) – A minor (vi) – D minor (iv) – G major (VII) – C major 7 (Imaj7) – C7 (I7) – C6 (I6) – C major (I) – Ab major (*bVI) – C major (I)

`* Ab major (bVI) is a borrowed chord from the parallel minor key (C minor).`

The given chord progression is found in Verse 2 of Tyler, The Creator’s song “Are We Still Friends.” The song is in the key of E major, and the progression features a mix of major, minor, and dominant seventh chords. The distinctive chromatic movement and the use of borrowed chords make for a memorable and unique progression. The combination of these elements results in a lush and emotionally charged progression which contributes greatly to the overall feel of the song.

The song “Yellow” by Coldplay uses a fairly standard pop/rock chord progression in the key of G major. It comprises three chords for the main progression: G Major (I), D Major (V), and Cmaj7 (IV7).

The progression is in the key of C major. The use of the Bb major is known as modal interchange, where a chord that is not in the key is borrowed from a parallel key, which in this case is C minor. This contributes an interesting tone color to the overall sound. The chord progression does consist a use of slash chords (C/B, C/G) which adds a more complex bassline creating a more harmonically active feeling, and yielding more tension and release.

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