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Related Music Theory Alchemy

“Closer” by Nine Inch Nails, released in 1994, is a well-known song distinguished by its catchy synth lines, explosive percussion, and provocative lyricism. Hinged on a distinct, repeating synth bassline, the song employs a fundamental chord progression epitomizing the alternative rock and industrial genres. Its tonal centre revolves around the key of C# minor.

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.

“And I Love Her” by The Beatles is predominantly set within the key of F# minor. Apart from the chorus that momentarily modulates to the key of D minor, the verses embrace a darker, melancholic atmosphere portrayed by the minor keys. The tonal structure and chord progressions in the song are reflective of the band’s exploration of intricate harmonies, going beyond the simple three-chord structures of many contemporary pop songs of the time.

The chord progression in Verse 2 of Radiohead’s “Nude” showcases a unique blend of minor and major chords within the key of E major, highlighting the band’s signature non-traditional approach to harmony. It features borrowed chords, as well as chromatic and diatonic motion between some chords.

The chord progression in MGMT’s “Congratulations” contains a mix of diatonic and non-diatonic chords, which provide a combination of stability and tension throughout the progression. The harmonic rhythm is slow, and the progression is mostly driven by bass line movement and voice leading. The mixture of borrowed chords, inversions, and suspended chords contributes to the overall unique character of the piece.

Nine Inch Nails – Closer – Verse 2

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Chord Progression

Cm7, Cm7, Cm7, Cm7

Chord Progression Analysis

C minor 7 (i7) – C minor 7 (i7) – C minor 7 (i7) – C minor 7 (i7)

Similar Chord Progressions

1. “Breathe” by Pink Floyd
Chord progression: Em9 (ii9) – A7sus4 (V7sus4) – A7 (V7) – Em9 (ii9)

2. “Creep” by Radiohead
Chord progression: G (I) – B (III) – C (IV) – Cm (iv)

3. “Zombie” by The Cranberries
Chord progression: Em (i) – Cmaj7 (VIΔ7) – G6 (III6) – D/F# (VII/2)

While these examples might not have the exact same chord progression as “Closer,” they display similar characteristics such as repetitive chord patterns, simple yet effective harmony, and strong focus on other musical elements to create tension and atmosphere.

Musical Analysis

The heavy repetition of the C minor 7 chord throughout the song creates a sense of stability and tension at the same time. The use of the minor 7th extends the harmony and depth of each chord. There are no borrowed chords in the given progression.

Overall Analysis

The song “Closer” by Nine Inch Nails is based primarily around the C minor 7 chord, giving the song its dark and moody atmosphere. The song is in the key of C minor. This chord progression is repetitive and simple, allowing other aspects of the song, such as the lyrics and production, to take center stage.

Style Analysis

Nine Inch Nails’ “Closer” is an iconic example of the industrial rock genre, featuring aggressive beats, synthesized instruments, and electronic textures. The simplicity of the chord progression places a stronger focus on the other elements of the song – the catchy synth riffs, the atmospheric singing, and the gritty production.

Chords in the Verse 2 section of Closer by Nine Inch Nails are:

Cm7, Cm7, Cm7, Cm7