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Related Music Theory Alchemy

The chord progression in “Breathe” by Pink Floyd is relatively simple, mostly alternating between two chords – Em and A7. However, this simplicity is quite effective in creating a relaxed, dreamy feel which is consistent with the overall theme of the song. This is a characteristic feature of Pink Floyd’s music, using simple chords and progressions to create a powerful emotional impact.

“Time” by Pink Floyd is a progressive rock song from their iconic album, The Dark Side of the Moon (1973). The listed chords form the harmonic basis of the chorus section. The harmony is characterized by diatonic major seventh chords, interspersed with a few borrowed chords. The chorus features a fluctuating major/minor tonality, giving the song an emotional and contemplative feel.

The song “Killer Queen” by Queen is primarily set in the key of F Major, while the Chorus 1 is in the key of G Major. The song’s harmonic voice leading and progressions reveal a sophisticated and nuanced approach that involves a continuous change of tonal center and utilization of secondary dominant and borrowed chords.

“Strawberry Fields Forever” by The Beatles is an iconic psychedelic rock track marked with rich harmonies and sophisticated musical elements. The song is primarily constructed around the key of A, but it employs several modal mixtures and non-diatonic chords, contributing to its intriguing tonality.

The song “1979” by The Smashing Pumpkins has a chord progression that can be considered experimental for Pop and Rock music, which typically tend to use simple and easily predictable progressions. In this song, the progression is notably more complex and unpredictable, shifting between ‘E’ and ‘Emaj7’ gives this track a moody feel, and the Amaj7 gives it another color. This progression is in the key of E major.

Pink Floyd – Breathe – Chorus 1

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Chord Progression

Cmaj7, Bm7, Fmaj7, G, D7#9, D7b9

Chord Progression Analysis

C Major 7 (I) – B Minor 7 (ii♭) – F Major 7 (IV♭) – G Major (V) – D7♯9 (V7/ii) – D7♭9 (V7♭9/ii)

Borrowed Chords:
“`
B Minor 7 (ii♭)
F Major 7 (IV♭)
“`

Similar Chord Progressions

1. Steely Dan – “Peg”
Chorus Chord Progression:
D Major 7 (I) – Db7♯9 (V7♯9/V) – Cmaj7 (IV♭) – Bm7 (iii) – Em7 (vi) – A13 (V9)

2. The Beatles – “Something”
Bridge Chord Progression:
E♭maj7 (I♭) – A♭maj7 (IV) – B♭7 (V) – E♭maj7 (I♭) – Gm7 (iii♭) – E♭maj7 (I♭) – A♭maj7 (IV) – B♭7 (V)

These examples contain some similar elements, including the use of major and minor seventh chords and unexpected harmonic turns, which are also found in the chorus of Pink Floyd’s “Breathe.”

Musical Analysis

The chord progression starts with the tonic Cmaj7, providing a stable and established tonal center. The following Bm7 is a borrowed chord from the parallel minor, C minor, and introduces chromaticism and tension. The Fmaj7 is another borrowed chord from C minor, providing a temporary sense of resolution with its smooth and calm character.

The G major chord acts as the dominant V in the key of C major, pointing to the eventual resolution, but the progression takes an unexpected turn with the D7♯9. This D7♯9 is an altered dominant chord resolving to the Bm7, functioning as the secondary dominant (V7/ii). The D7♭9 then replaces the previously mentioned D7♯9, which is another altered dominant chord, creating more dissonance while maintaining the same function.

Overall Analysis

The chord progression in the chorus of “Breathe” by Pink Floyd is a non-diatonic progression, meaning it does not strictly follow a specific key. The progression features some borrowed chords and a dominant seventh alteration. The style is influenced by blues and jazz, with a relaxed and reflective mood.

Chorus 1

Style Analysis

“Breathe” showcases Pink Floyd’s blending of rock, blues, and jazz elements in a psychedelic context. The use of major and minor seventh chords, dominant alterations, and borrowed chords create a lush and dreamy atmosphere that is characteristic of their music. The harmonic structure is unique and contains unexpected twists, adding to the depth and expressiveness of their compositions.

Chords in the Chorus 1 section of Breathe by Pink Floyd are:

Cmaj7, Bm7, Fmaj7, G, D7#9, D7b9