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Related Music Theory Alchemy

“Every Day Is Exactly The Same” by Nine Inch Nails utilizes a unique four-chord cycle in its chorus – ‘E’, ‘A’, ‘C’, ‘G’. The song is in the key of E minor, and therefore, the functional analysis would interpret this progression as i-IV-bVI-III. The bVI and III are borrowed chords from the parallel major scale. This chord progression creates a moody atmosphere that aligns with the overall melancholic and introspective theme of the song.

“Hurt”, written by Nine Inch Nails, exudes melancholy and despair through a slow progression that weaves intricate melodies between the chords. The tonality is primarily in B minor, but introduces D, E, A, and G chords throughout, indicating some mode mixture or borrowed chord use.

“Save Me” by Queen is in the key of G Major and it features a number of modulations to closely related keys. It resonates a distinct rock ballad style incorporating unique variations of common chord progressions from rock and pop genres. The progression’s utilization of inverted chords also brings depth and character to the melody.

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The chord progression in Verse 2 of Radiohead’s “All I Need” is a relatively simple and straightforward progression featuring chords from the key of C major. The progression revolves around the I, iii, and V chords (C, Em, and G), providing a tonal base that’s consistent and easy to follow. Radiohead’s use of repetition and minimalism in this progression contributes to an emotional atmosphere and allows listeners to focus on the lyrics and other musical elements.

“Rocket Man” by Elton John, released in 1972, is a melodic and harmonically sophisticated example of his pop/rock style. The piece is in the key of G, and the chord progression of Verse 2 introduces some harmonies that exploit john’s expertise in using extended and altered chords, which lend colorfulness and a feel of departure and return. The use of slash chords like G/B and D/F# creates a descending bass line that is very characteristic of pop and rock music, creating a sense of melodic movement within the chords themselves. Verse 2 is navigated skillfully between simplistic and complex harmonies.

Nine Inch Nails – Every Day Is Exactly The Same – Verse 2

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Chord Progression

E, C, E, C, E, C, G, F, E, C, E, C, E, C, G, F, E, C, E, C, E, C, G, F, E

Chord Progression Analysis

The verse sections utilize a common alternation between tonic (i) and submediant (VI) chords, creating a sense of tension and resolution, which is typical for the music of Nine Inch Nails. The G major and F major chords in the verse sections introduce variety and give a unique character to the song. The chorus and bridge sections maintain the tension of the verses while expanding the harmonic palette with chords like A major (IV) and G major (III).

Similar Chord Progressions

Musical Analysis

“Every Day Is Exactly The Same” reflects the signature Nine Inch Nails sound, which is characterized by a blending of rock, electronic, and industrial music elements. The repeated use of i-VI chord alternation contributes to an overall sense of melancholy and resignation, and the distinctive use of the borrowed F major chord contributes to the song’s dark, moody atmosphere.

Overall Analysis

“Every Day Is Exactly The Same” by Nine Inch Nails is primarily composed in the key of E minor. The song consists of four sections: Verse 1, Chorus, Verse 2, and Bridge. The chord progressions in the song are relatively simple, with a distinct alternation between E and C chords in the verses, while the chorus and bridge sections feature a broader range of chords such as A, C, and G.

Chord Progression Analysis (Verse 2):
E minor (i), C major (VI), E minor (i), C major (VI), E minor (i), C major (VI), G major (III), F major (♭VII; borrowed chord from E Phrygian), E minor (i)

*G major (III) and F major (♭VII) are both non-diatonic chords in E minor, with the F major chord being borrowed from the E Phrygian mode.

Style Analysis

1) Radiohead – “Karma Police”
Verse: A minor (i), A minor7/G (i7/♭VII), E minor (iv), D major (♭III)

2) Linkin Park – “Numb”
Verse: E minor (i), C major (VI), G major (III), D major (VII)

3) The Smashing Pumpkins – “1979”
Verse: E flat major (I), G minor (iii), C minor (vi), B flat major (V)

Chords in the Verse 2 section of Every Day Is Exactly The Same by Nine Inch Nails are:

E, C, E, C, E, C, G, F, E, C, E, C, E, C, G, F, E, C, E, C, E, C, G, F, E