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Related Music Theory Alchemy

“Comfortably Numb” by Pink Floyd is a classic progressive rock song from their 1979 concept album “The Wall”. It features unique chord progressions, ambient guitar tones, and an atmospheric vocal performance. This particular verse progression is inspired by the Dorian mode, contributing to its melancholic and introspective atmosphere.

The Verse of “Us and Them” by Pink Floyd showcases a unique and non-diatonic chord progression that focuses on D mixolydian mode with added sus2 chords and an augmented chord. It deviates from traditional harmony patterns and creates a spacious, floating feel. The chords occur in a consistent pattern and are mostly slash chords with the constant presence of the D note in the bass, which further strengthens the D tonality.

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.

The chord progression in the chorus of “Are We Still Friends” by Tyler, The Creator is a relatively simple yet effective progression that contains some characteristic elements of R&B and soul music. It includes a mixture of major and minor chords and a predominant use of dominant 7 chords (in this case, E7) to create a sense of tension and resolve within the progression. This progression is simple enough that it allows for the melody and lyrics to shine while still providing harmonic interest.

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.

Pink Floyd – Comfortably Numb – Chorus

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Chord Progression

D, A, D, A, G/B, C, G, G/B, C, G, D, A, D, A, G/B, C, G, G/B, C, G, Asus4, A, G/B, Cadd9, G, D

Chord Progression Analysis

D Major (I), A Major (V), D Major (I), A Major (V), G/B (IV6), C Major (bVII), G Major (IV), G/B (IV6), C Major (bVII), G Major (IV), D Major (I), A Major (V), D Major (I), A Major (V), G/B (IV6), C Major (bVII), G Major (IV), G/B (IV6), C Major (bVII), G Major (IV), A sus4 (V sus4), A Major (V), G/B (IV6), Cadd9 (bVII add9), G Major (IV), D Major (I)

`Borrowed Chords: bVII (C Major)`

Similar Chord Progressions

1. The Beatles – “Let It Be”
Chord progression: C Major (I), G Major (V), A minor (vi), F Major (IV), C Major (I), G Major (V), F Major (IV), C Major (I)

2. Oasis – “Wonderwall”
Chord progression: E minor7 (vi7), G Major (I), D sus4 (IV sus4), A7 sus4 (V7 sus4), E minor7 (vi7), G Major (I), D sus4 (IV sus4), A7 sus4 (V7 sus4)

3. Radiohead – “Karma Police”
Chord progression: A minor (i), A minor/F# (i7), A minor/F (i6), E minor (iv), D Major (VII), G Major (VI), C Major (III), B Major (II), A minor (i)

Musical Analysis

The chorus predominantly features a repetition of the I-V progression between D Major and A Major, which provides a strong foundation for the overall harmonic structure. The borrowed chord from the parallel minor, bVII (C Major), is introduced alongside the IV (G Major) and IV6 (G/B) chords, adding contrast and a subtle touch of unease to the soothing progression. The use of the A sus4 transitioning into the A Major chord further enhances the harmonic interest.

Overall Analysis

The chorus of Pink Floyd’s “Comfortably Numb” is a perfect example of their signature sound, combining both rock and progressive elements. The harmonic structure is simple yet effective, providing a sense of resolution and stability throughout the progression. This, combined with the smooth melodic lines, gives listeners a feeling of being “comfortably numb.”

Style Analysis

“Comfortably Numb” seamlessly fuses rock with progressive elements, a hallmark of Pink Floyd’s music. The chord progression is relatively simple, yet the inclusion of the borrowed chord and suspended chord adds depth and complexity. David Gilmour’s distinctive guitar work and solos elevate the track, giving it an ethereal and timeless quality.

Chords in the Chorus section of Comfortably Numb by Pink Floyd are:

D, A, D, A, G/B, C, G, G/B, C, G, D, A, D, A, G/B, C, G, G/B, C, G, Asus4, A, G/B, Cadd9, G, D