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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.

“Everything In Its Right Place” by Radiohead is a harmonically adventurous piece with an unconventional structure that features a mixture of modal and borrowed chords. The piece has an impressionistic quality influenced by classical lineage, while also regularly employing electronic and synthesized sounds.

“Brown Sugar” by The Rolling Stones is a rock song in the key of C major. The chord progression is simple and effective, reflecting the band’s blues and rock ‘n’ roll influences. The overall structure includes three verses with the same chord progression.

“Wild Horses” by the Rolling Stones is performed in the key of G major. However, the initial chord progression beginning on B minor gives it a modal feel, specifically borrowing chords from G Lydian mode (IV of D Major). It’s an interesting mixture of folky rock with a touch of the blues, and the chord progression is largely based around the typical I-IV-V progression found in many rock songs, but with many deviations and additions.

Key: G Major

“Electric Feel” by MGMT is characterized by its repetitive, catchy chord progression and usage of both major and minor chords which create a unique, surreal atmosphere. The song includes elements of psychedelic pop, funk, and electronic music.

Radiohead – All I Need – Verse 2

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Chord Progression

C, Em, G, C, Em, G, C, C, Em, G, C, Em, G, C, C, Em, G, C, Em, G, C

Chord Progression Analysis

C (I) – Em (iii) – G (V) – C (I) – Em (iii) – G (V) – C (I) – C (I) – Em (iii) – G (V) – C (I) – Em (iii) – G (V) – C (I) – C (I) – Em (iii) – G (V) – C (I) – Em (iii) – G (V) – C (I)

There are no borrowed chords in this progression.

Similar Chord Progressions

1. Coldplay – “Yellow”: C (I) – G (V) – F (IV) – G (V) – F (IV) – Am (vi) – G (V)
2. Oasis – “Wonderwall”: C (I) – Em7 (ii7) – G (V) – D (IV) -7 Em7 (ii7) -7 Dsus4/f# (IVsus47) – A (II)
3. U2 – “With or Without You”: D (I) – A (V) – Bm (vi) – G (IV)

These progressions also feature simple and straightforward chord sequences, often focused on the I, IV, and V chords with occasional use of vi or iii chords. This provides a similar sense of stability and allows for strong emotional connection with the audience.

Musical Analysis

The progression’s simplicity and the repetition of the chords give the song a hypnotic quality. The use of the I (C), iii (Em), and V (G) chords contributes to a sense of stability and familiarity, making it an ideal backdrop for the tender and emotional vocal melody. The choice of chords also adds a level of transparency to the harmonies, preventing any sense of clutter or harmonic busyness.

Overall Analysis

The chord progression in Verse 2 of Radiohead’s “All I Need” is a relatively simple and straightforward progression featuring chords from the key of C major. The progression revolves around the I, iii, and V chords (C, Em, and G), providing a tonal base that’s consistent and easy to follow. Radiohead’s use of repetition and minimalism in this progression contributes to an emotional atmosphere and allows listeners to focus on the lyrics and other musical elements.

Style Analysis

In the broader context of Radiohead’s work, this progression showcases their willingness to embrace simplicity and let the other elements of their music shine. It’s an example of their minimalist tendencies, providing room for Thom Yorke’s vocals and the song’s atmospheric and textural elements to take center stage. The consistency of the progression and the emotional impact it generates are characteristics of Radiohead’s unique style and sound.

Chords in the Verse 2 section of All I Need by Radiohead are:

C, Em, G, C, Em, G, C, C, Em, G, C, Em, G, C, C, Em, G, C, Em, G, C