Music Theory Alchemy

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The chorus of “Hate This And I’ll Love You” by Muse features a highly chromatic and non-diatonic chord progression, with a myriad of borrowed chords and some distinctive rock sound. The key within which the progression is based seems to shift between E minor and B minor, with a mixture of Major and minor chords throughout.

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.

The chord progression of the verse in Weezer’s “If You’re Wondering If I Want You To I Want You To” uses a combination of diatonic and borrowed chords in the key of D Major. The use of the borrowed chord from the parallel minor key contributes to the unique sound of the progression.

“Weezer’s “Island in the Sun” features a memorable and catchy chord progression, with a mix of major and minor chords that creates an overall uplifting and pleasant atmosphere. The song is in the key of G Major and employs a simple and repetitive progression, characteristic of pop and rock music. Although the chord progression is fairly common, the rhythmic pattern and melodic line make the song stand out among other pop and rock tunes.

“Hey Jude,” by The Beatles, is an iconic song. The chord progression is in the key of D major and it follows a sort of Variation on I-V-IV-I progression of many pop and rock songs. However, what makes this song extremely unique is its out-of-the-box structure and the experimental use of borrowed cords – it shows The Beatles’ fondness for combining elements of pop, rock and classical music and results in an emotional, powerful progression that resonates strongly with listeners.

Muse – Hate This And Ill Love You – Verse

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Chord Progression

A, Gm, D/F#, A, Gm, D, A, Gm, D/F#, A, Gm, D/F#

Chord Progression Analysis

The progression starts with the tonic chord A major, establishing the key of the piece. It then moves to the borrowed chord, Gm, which creates contrast and adds tension to the harmonic structure. The D/F# chord acts as a secondary dominant (IV/V), leading back to the tonic A major. The repetition of these chords with a few variations throughout the verse generates an interesting mix of stability and tension, and the frequent use of the borrowed Gm chord results in a bitonal character.

Similar Chord Progressions

Musical Analysis

Muse’s unique chord progression is a perfect example of their diverse influences, which range from classical music to rock and electronica. The combination of diatonic and borrowed chords is a distinctive trait found in much of their music. The structure highlights the tension created by contrasting major and minor harmonies, which is a common theme in their music – often reflecting the dramatic and emotionally charged lyrics.

Overall Analysis

The chord progression from Muse’s “Hate This And I’ll Love You” displays a mix of diatonic and borrowed chords from the parallel minor. The progression is in the key of A major and shows an unconventional use of chords that gives the song its unique sound. It also showcases certain characteristics of Muse’s music style that includes complex chord progressions and frequent changes between major and minor harmonies.

Chord Progression Analysis and Roman Numerals:

A ('I'), Gm ('bVII'), D/F# ('IV/V'), A ('I'),
Gm ('bVII'), D ('IV'), A ('I'), Gm ('bVII'),
D/F# ('IV/V'), A ('I'), Gm ('bVII'), D/F# ('IV/V')

The borrowed chord in this progression is Gm, taken from the parallel minor, A minor:
`Gm (‘bVII’)`

Style Analysis

1. Radiohead – Karma Police

Am ('i'), G ('♭VII'), Em ('v'), Am ('i'),
F ('♭VI'), Em ('v'), G ('♭VII'),

2. The Beatles – Something

C ('I'), Cmaj7 ('IM7'), C7 ('I7'), F ('IV'),
D ('V'), G ('bVII'), Am ('vi'), Am7/G ('vi7/♭VII')

These songs use similar borrowing techniques from parallel keys, and their chord progressions feature a rich harmonic palette with continuous harmonic shifts that create an intriguing listening experience.

Chords in the Verse section of Hate This And Ill Love You by Muse are:

A, Gm, D/F#, A, Gm, D, A, Gm, D/F#, A, Gm, D/F#