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Related Music Theory Alchemy

The song “Hurt” by Nine Inch Nails mainly consists of a six-chord progression (Bm, G, D, A, Bm, G), repeating four times in the chorus. The sixth repetition alters the ending (Bm, G, A, B), and the key of the song is B Minor.

“Right Where It Belongs” by Nine Inch Nails is a song characterized by its melodic and harmonic structure. It has a unique yet familiar sound, blending pop and alternative rock elements with its rich chord progression and powerful melody.

“Sour Times” by Portishead is characterized by dark, brooding sounds and melancholic melodies that gives the song its distinct feel, largely due to the specific chord progression that is used throughout the song. Written in the key of E major, the song makes use of a diverse selection of chords that offers a wider blend of harmonic options to navigate through different moods and tonal landscapes.

The chord progression in the chorus of Muse’s “Apocalypse Please” consists of a mix of diatonic chords and borrowed chords from the parallel major and minor keys. The progression features strong harmonic movement with a pivot modulation. Muse is known for their dramatic, often symphonic rock sound, and this progression is no exception in showing off their signature style. The progression also shares some similarities with other artists’ works in both structure and harmonic content.

This chord progression is in the key of Am. The work can be seen as a mix of the Western tonal harmony, incorporating the use of inversions alongside nondiatonic chords. Tame Impala employs the elements of neo-psychedelia with unique chord progressions and arrangements. The alteration between two chords creates a revolving feeling, reinforcing the title “alter ego”.

Nine Inch Nails – Hurt – Chorus

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Chord Progression

Bm, G, D, A, Bm, G, D, A, Bm, G, D, A, Bm, G, A, B

Chord Progression Analysis

B minor (i) – G major (VI) – D major (III) – A major (VII)

Similar Chord Progressions

1. “Creep” by Radiohead
Chord progression: G major (I) – B major (III) – C major (IV) – C minor (iv)

2. “Mad World” by Tears for Fears
Chord progression: F minor (i) – A♭ major (III) – B♭ major (IV) – D♭ major (VI)

Note that these songs utilize different keys and may not have the exact same progression as “Hurt,” but they follow a similar pattern and emotional feel due to the use of borrowed chords and related techniques. The shared aesthetic among these songs lies in their emotional depth and introspective lyricism.

Musical Analysis

The foundation of the chord progression is built around the tonic (Bm – i), submediant (G – VI), and mediant (D – III). The A major chord (VII) comes from the parallel major key (B major), which is considered a borrowed chord. This borrowed chord introduces an unexpected major quality into the progression, which adds to the emotional impact of the chorus.

Overall Analysis

“Hurt” by Nine Inch Nails features a melancholic and introspective chord progression. The song is predominantly in the key of B minor. The verse and outro sections revolve around the Bm, D, and E chords, while the chorus uses a progression of Bm, G, D, A. The use of borrowed chords enriches the harmonic landscape, adding depth to the composition.

Style Analysis

“Hurt” showcases the signature style of Nine Inch Nails, characterized by introspective lyricism, dark ambiance, and emotional vulnerability. The chord progression complements this aesthetic, evoking a sense of longing, melancholy, and regret. The song also incorporates experimental and electronic elements, along with a simple yet impactful melody.

Chords in the Chorus section of Hurt by Nine Inch Nails are:

Bm, G, D, A, Bm, G, D, A, Bm, G, D, A, Bm, G, A, B