Oasis – Wonderwall – Verse 1
Wonderwall < All Analyses
Chord Progression
[‘Em’, ‘G’, ‘D’, ‘A7sus4’, ‘Em’, ‘G’, ‘D’, ‘A7sus4’, ‘Em’, ‘G’, ‘D’, ‘A7sus4’, ‘C’, ‘D’, ‘A7sus4’, ‘A7sus4’]
Chord Progression Analysis
This is the chord progression for the verse:
“`
Em (vi),
G (I),
D (V),
A7sus4 (V7sus4),
Em (vi),
G (I),
D (V),
A7sus4 (V7sus4),
Em (vi),
G (I),
D (V),
A7sus4 (V7sus4),
C (IV),
D (V),
A7sus4 (V7sus4),
A7sus4 (V7sus4)
“`
This progression uses the common I-V-vi-IV sequence, which is found in numerous pop songs (Oasis uses different permutations of this progression).
“`The A7sus4 chord is technically a borrowed chord, as it incorporates the note D, which is not part of the G major scale.“`
Similar Chord Progressions
1. “Let It Be” by The Beatles:
“`
C (IV),
G (I),
Am (ii),
F (IV),
C (IV),
G (I),
F (VI),
C (IV)
“`
2. “No Woman No Cry” by Bob Marley:
“`
C (IV),
G (I),
Am (ii),
F (VI),
C (IV),
F (VI),
C (IV),
G(I)
“`
3. “High and Dry” by Radiohead: OK Computer
“`
Am (ii),
E (V/vi),
Am (ii),
E (V/vi)
“`
These songs also display the common/popular I-V-vi-IV chord progression, or a variation of it, similar to “Wonderwall.”
Musical Analysis
The verse of “Wonderwall” has a distinctly repetitive progression that makes it catchy and memorable – important elements for a mainstream pop rock song. The progression lends the song a sense of narrative progression, which is common in mainstream pop, rock, and folk music. The A7sus4 chord introduces tension that pulls towards a resolution, emphasizing the song’s emotive quality.
Overall Analysis
“Wonderwall” is a song by Oasis, a British rock band. The song showcases the blend of rock and Britpop style. The chord progression in the verse reflects a strong pop feeling, primarily residing in the key of G major.
Style Analysis
Oasis’ “Wonderwall” matches their typical sonic offering; a blend of guitar-driven rock and Britpop. The repetitive chord progression underpinning the melody provides a strong, catchy rhythm that drives the song forward, keeping the listener engaged. This reflects the band’s ethos of simplicity in structure with high emotive payoff.
What are the chords in: Oasis – Wonderwall – Verse 1?
[‘Em’, ‘G’, ‘D’, ‘A7sus4’, ‘Em’, ‘G’, ‘D’, ‘A7sus4’, ‘Em’, ‘G’, ‘D’, ‘A7sus4’, ‘C’, ‘D’, ‘A7sus4’, ‘A7sus4’]
