Queens of the Stone Age – In My Head – Chorus
In My Head < All Analyses
Chord Progression
[‘E’, ‘G5’, ‘D’, ‘D#’]
Chord Progression Analysis
The chorus features the following chords:
E Major (`I`)
G5 (`bIII`)
D Major (`VII`)
D# Major (`VII#`)
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Borrowed Chord: G5
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Similar Chord Progressions
Few artists tend to use similar chord progressions as their style is highly distinctive. However, some songs from grunge and desert rock genre do employ similar essence owned by Queens of the Stone Age. For instance, Nirvana’s “Smells Like Teen Spirit” has a similar progression in its chorus:
A (‘VI’)
G#5 (‘#V’)
D (‘VII’)
D# (‘VII#’)
Notice the usage of non-diatonic and borrowed chords creating a similar sonic texture. Even though the keys are different, the common usage of chromatic mediants and non-diatonic chords can be clearly seen in both the songs.
Musical Analysis
The inclusion of the G5 and D# Major chords in this progression is very interesting. The G5, is a borrowed chord from the parallel minor key. Borrowed chords are often used in music to add color and disruption to the harmony. In this case, the G5 creates a momentary shift in harmony when it arrives, disrupting the tonality established by the E Major.
Moving on to the D and D# Major chords, these chords are a whole step apart, which creates a chromatic mediant relationship which often brings tension and resolution in a song.
Overall Analysis
“In My Head” is a good example of the band’s signature style, combining elements of rock, punk, and alternative music. The usage of primary chords is fairly standard for rock music, but the inclusion of unexpected chords like G5 and D# adds a complex flavor to the progression making it notably unique amongst other songs within the genre.
Style Analysis
As mentioned earlier, the usage of non-diatonic chords and notes is part of the Queens of the Stone Age’s distinctive style. They aren’t afraid to experiment with unconventional chord progressions, which contributes to the unique sound they’re known for. It’s a mix of grunge, desert rock, and a dash of psychedelic that makes their music instantly recognizable.
What are the chords in: Queens of the Stone Age – In My Head – Chorus?
[‘E’, ‘G5’, ‘D’, ‘D#’]
