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Related Music Theory Alchemy

The verse of “All I Need” by Radiohead features a simple chord progression consisting of three main chords: C, Em, and G. It alternates between these three chords for most of the progression, with some occasional repetition of the C chord. This progression provides a consistent harmonic foundation for the vocal melody and sets a mostly stable and melancholic mood.

“Fake Plastic Trees” by Radiohead is a haunting and introspective ballad that features an evocative chord progression. The progression appears to have been influenced by alternative rock and combines elements of both major and minor tonalities, as well as non-diatonic and diatonic chords. This blend of harmonic flavors creates an unforgettable sound that is melancholic, yet beautiful.

The song “Hurt” by Nine Inch Nails has a tonal center around the key of B minor, as it is the most prominently featured chord in both the verse and chorus sections. The verse features a simple three-chord progression (Bm-D-E), and the chorus introduces additional chords (G, A). The outro mainly repeats the chords from the verse. The style of the piece can be characterized as haunting, melancholic, and somewhat minimalistic with only a few chords creating the harmonic landscape.

“God Only Knows” by The Beach Boys is one of their most well-known pieces and a primary example of the sophisticated harmonic writing characteristic of the group’s 1966 “Pet Sounds” record. This piece is particularly designed in the key of A major. The Outro of the song includes the following chords: ‘A’, ‘E/G#’, ‘F#m7’, ‘E/G#’ and many other chords throughout the song with complex chord changes that might not be typical in a pop song, but are characteristic of the band’s sound.

“Everything In Its Right Place” by Radiohead is an experimental and ambient piece released in 2000 as part of their album “Kid A.” The piece defies traditional pop and rock song forms, delving more into the territory of electronic and experimental music. The outro chord progression is simple but intriguing, serving a hypnotic and unresolved quality that keeps the listener engaged.

Radiohead – All I Need – Outro

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Chord Progression

C, Em, G, C

Chord Progression Analysis

“`
C Major (I) – E minor (iii) – G Major (V) – C Major (I)
“`

Similar Chord Progressions

Musical Analysis

This chord progression begins with the tonic, C Major, also known as the I chord. This chord establishes the key and provides a stable, grounding sound.

Following the C Major, the progression moves to E minor, or the iii chord. This is a relative minor chord which shares the same key signature as C Major. It creates a sense of melancholy and longing, introducing tension into the progression.

Next, the progression moves to the G Major (V) chord, which is the dominant chord in the key of C Major. This serves to heighten the tension that was introduced by the iii chord, and creates a strong desire for resolution.

Finally, the progression returns to the C Major (I) chord, providing the sought-after resolution and bringing the progression full-circle.

Style Notes:
Radiohead is known for their unconventional and often emotional chord progressions. This particular progression showcases their distinctive style, featuring a blend of consonant chords (C Major and G Major) and dissonant chords (E minor). It is a relatively simple progression that effectively conveys the deep emotion found in many Radiohead songs.

Overall Analysis

The given chord progression is in the key of C Major and follows a simple, yet effective structure. It features a blend of consonance and dissonance, which creates a sense of resolution and tension simultaneously. This progression is characteristic of Radiohead’s unique sound and their ability to create emotive landscapes through their music.

Style Analysis

1. Coldplay – “Yellow”
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A Major (I) – E Major (V) – F# minor (vi) – D Major (IV)
“`

2. The Beatles – “Let It Be”
“`
C Major (I) – G Major (V) – A minor (vi) – F Major (IV)
“`

These chord progressions demonstrate similar qualities to the Radiohead progression in terms of consonant and dissonant chords, effectively blending tension and resolution to evoke emotion within the listener.

Chords in the Outro section of All I Need by Radiohead are:

C, Em, G, C