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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 song “Hurt” by Nine Inch Nails is in the key of B minor. The verse has a simple yet effective chord progression that revolves mainly around the i, III, and IV chords with a slight deviation towards the end. The chorus is characterized by a i-VII-III-VI progression with a slight extension. The outro mostly repeats the verse progression but is shorter.

“I Sat By The Ocean” by Queens of the Stone Age employs multiple chords which creates a complex and engaging harmony in the verse. The song is in the key G# major and it uses multiple borrowed chords from other keys. It’s worth noting that Queens of the Stone Age has a distinct sound that incorporates elements of stoner rock, heavy metal, and alternative rock into their material. Sizeable use of power chords that gives the song its heavy rock feel.

The Verse of “Us and Them” by Pink Floyd showcases a unique and non-diatonic chord progression that focuses on D mixolydian mode with added sus2 chords and an augmented chord. It deviates from traditional harmony patterns and creates a spacious, floating feel. The chords occur in a consistent pattern and are mostly slash chords with the constant presence of the D note in the bass, which further strengthens the D tonality.

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#