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Related Music Theory Alchemy

“Hurt” is a song written and composed by Trent Reznor, best known for its version covered by Johnny Cash in C major. The song employs a commonly used pop/rock chord progression (vi- IV- I- V), that aids the conveyance of the theme of regret and redemption. The use of the minor vi chord (Am) as the starting point of the progression provides a very melancholy feel that aligns with the overall tone of regret in the lyrics. The progression then moves to a major IV (F), suggestive of a brief glimpse of hope or relief, before settling into the home key of C. The progression rounds off with a V chord (G), propelling the sequence back to the beginning again, giving a cyclic, repeating, and enduring feel to the music.

“Right Where It Belongs” by Nine Inch Nails features a melancholic and somewhat unconventional chord progression that moves between different tonal centers. The base key can be identified as F major from the frequency of F major chords in the progression.

The chord progression in the chorus of “Lost Cause” by Beck showcases a simple yet effective pattern utilizing major chords and a dominant seventh chord, which creates tension and resolution throughout the progression. The song is in C major, and the chords predominantly follow the diatonic harmony of the key. The style is reminiscent of folk and alternative rock, with the harmony playing a significant role in evoking a sense of melancholy in the listener.

“If You’re Wondering If I Want You To (I Want You To)” by Weezer has a chorus featuring a chord progression in the key of D major. The progression includes chords from both the major and minor scales while still primarily using diatonic chords from D major. The style of the progression is reminiscent of 90s alternative rock, and it finds similarity with other iconic chord progressions in rock music.

The given chord progression is from the chorus of “Earfquake” by Tyler, The Creator, a contemporary hip-hop and neo-soul artist. The progression features a smooth and mellow tonality, characterized by the use of 7th chords. The chord progression is in the key of Bb Major and showcases the use of mostly diatonic chords with a repetition that contributes to the song’s catchy nature.

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