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Related Music Theory Alchemy

The chord progression for Radiohead’s “All I Need” chorus features a simple and repetitive structure, with a strong emphasis on the tonic (C major) and its relative minor (E minor). The progression then ends with a brief move to the dominant (G major), before returning to the tonic. This accessible sequence reflects the song’s emotional vulnerability and simplicity, while also showcasing the band’s ability to create emotional depth in their music.

Verse 3 of Radiohead’s Motion Picture Soundtrack features a melancholic and non-functional chord progression that showcases the band’s use of interesting chord voicings as well as the mixture of major and minor modalities. The progression revolves around the G major, and shifts between borrowed chords and non-conventional chord extensions such as the sus2 chord. This approach is typical of alternative rock bands like Radiohead, which often stray away from traditional norms in favor of innovative and evocative harmonies.

“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.

“Beast of Burden,” by The Rolling Stones, a song characterized by a typical rock-pop structure, primarily uses a IV-chord loop in the key of E major. The chord progression in the outro follows a specific sequence: E, to B, to C#m, to A. The return to the E at the end of the progression gives it a circular feel that encourages cohesion.

“Think I’m In Love” by Beck is a pop-infused indie rock piece that features an easy-going, catchy melody and a simple yet effective chord progression. The use of repetitive chords throughout the Outro creates a sense of stability and familiarity. The Outro builds upon the tonal center of F Major established earlier in the song and prolongs the tonic, adding to the song’s overall sense of closure and resolution.

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”
“`
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