Music Theory Alchemy

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“Closer” by Nine Inch Nails utilizes a relatively simple chord structure, which allows the song to establish a pervasive atmosphere and direct the listener’s focus on the lyrics and melodies. This piece is in the key of C minor, and the chord progression is cyclical in nature, with Verse 2 consisting of the repetition of Cm7 chord throughout.

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Nine Inch Nails’ “Closer” is a unique blend of industrial rock, electronica, and alternative styles that has propelled the song to prominence as one of the band’s most famous and frequently played tracks. The song is in the key of E major and features a recurring chord progression throughout its various sections.

The chord progression in verse 2 of “Telepatia” by Kali Uchis is a jazz-influenced progression in the key of E minor. It features several extended chords, such as the Em9 and Gmaj7 used throughout, and a dominant chord, B7, which provides tension and resolution in the progression. The G/A chord, which is essentially an A11 chord without the 3rd, also gives the progression a sense of blending major and minor tonalities.

The chord progression in Verse 2 of Beck’s “Say Goodbye” showcases a unique blend of chords that are not commonly heard together in popular music. The mix of major, minor, and borrowed chords creates an interesting and engaging sound. Its distinctive quality can be found in the use of the A# major chord, which is not diatonic to the key of G major.

“Lord Only Knows” by Beck showcases a simple yet effective chord progression in its Verse 2. The harmonic foundation of this progression is based on the I – V – IV – I pattern, repeated four times. This pattern is common in many popular music genres, with the verse featuring a strong tonic-dominant relationship. The progression also displays an interesting mix of major and minor chords, adding a certain level of spice to the harmonic atmosphere present in the verse.

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