Prince – Kiss – Verse 2
Kiss < All Analyses
Chord Progression
[‘A5’, ‘D5’, ‘A5’]
Chord Progression Analysis
– A5 (I)
– D5 (IV)
– A5 (I)
`borrowed chords: None in this progression`
Similar Chord Progressions
– “You Really Got Me” by The Kinks is another famous song employing a similar I-IV-I progression, albeit in a different key. The chords are G5 (I) – C5 (IV) – G5 (I).
– “Smells like Teen Spirit” by Nirvana also follows a similar chord progression, adding a VI as well. The chords are F5 (I) – Bb5 (IV) – Ab5 (bVI) – Db5 (bII). These ‘borrowed’ chords (bVI, bII) are from the parallel minor, and they help create a sense of tension and edginess.
Musical Analysis
The verse of “Kiss” is quite streamlined and its simplicity is a primary factor in the song’s overall catchiness. It employs a simple I-IV-I progression, reminiscent of early rock and roll and blues. The use of power chords (neither major nor minor, just root and fifth) also adds to the song’s rock style, giving it an aggressive but neutral tone. There is thus an enticing vagueness to the harmony.
Overall Analysis
“Kiss” by Prince is a classic example showcasing Prince’s unique and complex songwriting abilities. The song is written in the key of A major. The distinctive funk rock style is primarily expressed via dominant and suspended chords. This combined with Prince’s rhythmically tight and syncopated guitar playing gives the song its infectious groove.
Style Analysis
“Kiss” by Prince represents the Minnesotan artist’s move towards a more stripped down yet rhythmically complex pop sound, deviating from his earlier works which had a thick layered synth pop style. The chord progression used is rooted in the rock and roll tradition with an inclusion of his funk stylings. It’s a nod to the rock and roll pioneers but with a modern 80’s touch. Prince’s vocals also play around with falsetto adding an extra layer of contrast to the aggressive guitar work.
What are the chords in: Prince – Kiss – Verse 2?
[‘A5’, ‘D5’, ‘A5’]
