Music Theory Alchemy

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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.

The chord progression in Radiohead’s “You And Whose Army” showcases the band’s unique style of blending chord progressions from different key centers, as well as their tendency to use borrowed chords. The progression consists largely of diatonic chords from the key of C# minor, but also features a few borrowed chords from D# minor and the parallel major key, C# Major.

“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.

“Welcome to the Machine” by Pink Floyd is a progressive rock piece that features a rather minimalistic chord progression, with only one chord during the outro. The piece is characterized by its lush soundscape, synthesizer layering, and the use of sound effects to create an atmosphere of a mechanized world.

“Hurt”, written by Nine Inch Nails, exudes melancholy and despair through a slow progression that weaves intricate melodies between the chords. The tonality is primarily in B minor, but introduces D, E, A, and G chords throughout, indicating some mode mixture or borrowed chord use.

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