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Related Music Theory Alchemy

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 chord progression of the given segment from Muse’s “Apocalypse Please” reflects the band’s signature blend of rock, electronic, and classical music. The progression is in the key of F# minor and features some chromaticism and modal mixture, which is quite common in their style of music. The harmonic rhythm is mostly consistent, and the chords utilized provide a strong sense of direction and resolution throughout the verse.

The chord progression in “Ramona” by Beck is a blend of diatonic and chromatic harmony with some borrowed chords from outside the key. The piece is in the key of G major, and it features several instances of voice leading, smooth transitions between chords, and the occasional unexpected chord that adds interest and depth to the progression.

“Anti-Hero,” a standout track from Taylor Swift, exemplifies her mature songwriting style that merges introspective lyrics with intricate harmonies. This song’s verse utilizes a chord progression that creates a rich emotional landscape, perfectly complementing the themes of self-reflection and personal imperfection. The progression, while rooted in the traditional pop structure, employs extended chords to enhance its lyrical narrative, adding layers of complexity that resonate with listeners.

“Yesterday” by The Beatles showcases the innovative use of chord progressions that the group is known for. This song, unlike their other songs, includes borrowed chords and numerous secondary dominant chords. It also uses their favored approach of mixing chords from parallel major and minor scales, hence creating a ‘blended’ modal effect.

Moreover, it uses a mixolydian ♭7 in the main chord sequence, which is quite a popular trick among songwriters for shifting the tonic of a song.

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#