Search

Related Music Theory Alchemy

“Comfortably Numb” is a song by Pink Floyd from their 1979 album, The Wall. It is written in the key of D major and has a slow, dreamy tempo. The second verse of the song features a chord progression that is a blend of major and minor chords, giving the song a sense of melancholy mixed with a calming atmosphere. It also deviates from the typical pop/rock chord progressions, signifying Pink Floyd’s distinct sound and innovative use of harmony.

“Another Brick In The Wall Part 2” by Pink Floyd features a simple, repetitive chord progression in the chorus. The chords are diatonic, meaning they all belong to the key of F Major, and the progression creates a sense of resolution and tension through the use of alternating chords. The style of the song is a mix of progressive rock and disco, with some elements of funk.

This iconic Britpop song predominantly features the use of traditional tonal harmony found in pop songs throughout the late 20th century, and the verse specifically recalls the harmonic patterns utilized in the 1950s and 60s. The defining feature of this song (as is the case with many Oasis tunes) is the use of returning, resounding repetitions of simple chord sequences.

“Viva La Vida” by Coldplay is a pop song that sits primarily in the key of G major, featuring four common chords: C Major, D Major, G Major, and E minor. The song’s simplicity lies in the consistent use of these chords, which creates a consistent harmony throughout the song.

Elton John’s melody for “Your Song” is an elegant example of varied harmonization and creative chord usage. The verse chord progression is in the key of D Major, but employs the use of borrowed chords and modulation for enhancing musical flavour and interest.

Pink Floyd – Comfortably Numb – Verse 1

Add To Favorites Remove From Favorites

< All Analyses

Chord Progression

Bsus2, Bm, A, G, G/F#, Em, Bm, Bsus2, Bm, A, G, G/F#, Em, Bm, Bsus2, Bm, A, G, G/F#, Em, Bm

Chord Progression Analysis

Bsus2 (ii), Bm (i), A (VII), G (VI), G/F# (VI/3), Em (iv), Bm (i), Bsus2 (ii), Bm (i), A (VII), G (VI), G/F# (VI/3), Em (iv), Bm (i), Bsus2 (ii), Bm (i), A (VII), G (VI), G/F# (VI/3), Em (iv), Bm (i)

Borrowed Chords:
`G (VI)` – Borrowed from the B Ionian mode.

Similar Chord Progressions

1. Radiohead – “Exit Music (For a Film)”
Em (i), Bm (v), G (III), G/F# (III/3), Am (iv), D (VII), A (V), E (VI)

2. The Beatles – “While My Guitar Gently Weeps”
Am (i), Am/G (i/3), Am/F# (i/6), Am/F (iv), G (VII), D (IV), E (V), Fmaj7 (VI), G (VII)

3. Led Zeppelin – “Stairway to Heaven”
Am (i), G#dim (iidim), Am7 (i7), Am/G (i/3), D/F# (IV/3), Fmaj7 (VI), Am (i), G (VII)

These examples showcase the use of non-diatonic chords, modal interchange, and similar elements present in the chord progression of “Comfortably Numb” by Pink Floyd. It is essential to note that while there are similarities in the progressions, each artist has their methods and techniques for creating a unique sound.

Musical Analysis

The chord progression of “Comfortably Numb” incorporates various elements that contribute to its distinctive sound. Among these is the frequent use of the Bm and Bsus2 chords, which emphasizes the melancholic atmosphere of the song. The use of Dorian mode-inspired chords like Em (iv), A (VII), and G (VI) also adds to the unique character of the song by creating a slight deviation from the more conventional sound of the B Aeolian mode.

The inclusion of the borrowed G (VI) chord adds color to the overall sound of the progression and helps maintain the listener’s interest throughout the song. The G/F# (VI/3) chord introduces an ascending bass line that adds some movement and direction to the progression.

Overall Analysis

“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.

Style Analysis

Notably, the chord progression found in “Comfortably Numb” is not fully diatonic, which is typical of progressive rock. The blend of modal and non-modal chords is a hallmark of Pink Floyd’s style, creating an ethereal and contemplative atmosphere that complements their lyrics and themes. The juxtaposition of complex harmonies, along with ambient guitar tones, creates a sense of tension and release throughout the piece.

Chords in the Verse 1 section of Comfortably Numb by Pink Floyd are:

Bsus2, Bm, A, G, G/F#, Em, Bm, Bsus2, Bm, A, G, G/F#, Em, Bm, Bsus2, Bm, A, G, G/F#, Em, Bm