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Related Music Theory Alchemy

The second guitar solo in “Comfortably Numb” by Pink Floyd is based on a simple five-chord progression, spanning two diatonic tonalities (i.e., B minor and G major). This progression heavily relies on the B Aeolian mode (or natural minor scale) and showcases the band’s affinity for modal interchange and progressive rock elements.

The given chord progression is from the verse of Pink Floyd’s “Breathe,” a song from their 1973 album, “The Dark Side of the Moon.” The progression consists of alternating Em and A7 chords throughout the entire verse. This creates a sense of movement and tension between the chords while also being relatively simple and repetitive. The harmonic back-and-forth between these two chords gives the song a dreamy and immersive quality that is a signature sound of Pink Floyd’s style.

The song “Get You” by Daniel Caesar features a smooth and soulful chord progression that reflects the style of contemporary R&B and neo-soul. The chords provide a sense of warmth and sincerity that complements the song’s intimate lyrics. The progression is primarily diatonic, but with some borrowed chords, which adds an interesting color to the music.

The song “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me” by Elton John is brilliantly harmonized, showcasing the great musical arrangement skills of John at his best. Primarily, the song is based in the key of C Major and uses a variety of moving bass lines over mostly diatonic chords in the verses and choruses. There are some key modulations and borrowed chords that give the harmony a rich and complex quality which sets it apart from many contemporary pop songs.

Verse

“Take Me Home Country Roads” is written in G major. The song is characterized by a strong, consistent beat and a simple, memorable melody which are typical characteristics associated with country and folk music. The progression follows a predictable sequence, also typical of these genres, and contributes to the song’s classic, feel.

Pink Floyd – Comfortably Numb – Verse 1

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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