Oasis – Wonderwall – Chorus
Wonderwall < All Analyses
Chord Progression
[‘C’, ‘Em’, ‘G’, ‘Em’]
Chord Progression Analysis
For detailed analysis and understanding, it’s vital to break the given progression down into the core chords and their roman numeral references, identifying borrowed chords.
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C Major (‘I’)
E Minor (‘iii’)
G Major (‘V’)
E Minor (‘iii’)
“`
Similar Chord Progressions
While this specific sequence of I-iii-V is distinct to “Wonderwall”, similar foundational chord progressions are quite significant in the realm of pop, rock, and folk music. For instance:
“Let It Be” by The Beatles: follows a similar I-V-vi-IV progression. This is far from identical to “Wonderwall’s” progression, but it shares the same diatonic, major-key construction.
Chord Progression:
“`
C Major (‘I’),
G Major (‘V’),
A minor (‘vi’),
F major (‘IV’)`
“`
“Every Breath You Take” by The Police: This song uses a similar oscillation between major and minor chords in its iconic progressions.
Chord Progression:
“`
G major (‘I’),
Em (‘vi’),
C major (‘IV’),
D major (‘V’)`
“`
Each of these songs uses slightly different combinations and orders of the same basic chords; it’s the specific arrangement and rhythm that gives each song its unique flavor. In that sense, “Wonderwall” stands out for its repetitious, almost hypnotic oscillation between just three chords which is quite compelling.
Musical Analysis
The defining musical feature of the chorus of “Wonderwall” is the steady oscillation between the I-iii-V progression in the key of C major. Strictly speaking, there are no borrowed chords; all are diatonic to the key of C major, meaning they are built using the notes of the C major scale. The pattern is designed to loop indefinitely in the chorus, maintaining a sense of constant momentum beneath the vocal melody.
Overall Analysis
“Wonderwall” by Oasis is a rock song with folk roots and a melodic pop influence. It uses the alternative rock idiom of harmony, which bestows the song with a sound leaning towards traditional folk and classic pop. The band utilizes common vintage chords mixed with modern progressions to create that identifiable Oasis sound.
Style Analysis
“Wonderwall” is a perfect example of Oasis’ style – an integration of rock, pop, and folk elements. The song’s chord progression reflects both the influence of ’60s pop especially The Beatles, and ’90s rock. The iconic I-iii-V song structure is part of what gives “Wonderwall” its timeless quality. The contrast between the bright, major tonality of the C and G chords with the sadder, minor tonality of the Em creates a mood of bittersweet nostalgia – a staple of Oasis’ sound.
What are the chords in: Oasis – Wonderwall – Chorus?
[‘C’, ‘Em’, ‘G’, ‘Em’]
