Radiohead – Creep – Bridge
Creep < All Analyses
Chord Progression
G, B, C, Cm, G, B, C, Cm
Chord Progression Analysis
The chords in the bridge of “Creep” are as follows:
G major (I)
B major (III)
C major (IV)
C minor (iv)
G major (I)
B major (III)
C major (IV)
C minor (iv)
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Borrowed Chord: C minor (iv)
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Similar Chord Progressions
1. The Beatles – “While My Guitar Gently Weeps”
– [Am (vi), G (IV), C#m (iii), C#m (iii), Am (vi), G (IV), C#m (iii), C#m (iii)]
2. Led Zeppelin – “Stairway to Heaven”
– [Am (vi), G# diminished (vii°), C (III), D (IV), F (bVI), Am (vi), G# diminished (vii°), C (III), D (IV), F (bVI)]
These examples feature chord progressions that are similar to Radiohead’s “Creep,” though not identical. They both involve the use of chromatic mediants and borrowed chords from adjacent keys, which creates a rich and emotionally charged atmosphere.
Musical Analysis
The bridge’s chord progression is based on two distinct parts, each repeated twice. The initial G, B, C sequence (I – III – IV) features a major key chromatic mediant progression, which involves a major third relationship between G and B. This creates a smooth, elegant sound.
The introduction of the borrowed C minor (iv) chord, which replaces the diatonic C major (IV) in the second half of each phrase, adds an element of tension and drama. This is mainly because C minor naturally belongs to the parallel minor key (G minor). The use of both C major (IV) and C minor (iv) seamlessly incorporates the mixture of diatonic and borrowed chords, contributing to the sense of melancholy and emotional depth in Radiohead’s work.
Overall Analysis
“Creep” by Radiohead is a well-known song that features a fairly simple chord progression in its bridge. The progression is memorable for its fusion of diatonic and chromatic elements, creating a sense of tension and interest.
Style Analysis
This chord progression’s beauty lies in its simplicity and effectiveness in conveying a strong emotional impact. The use of a chromatic mediant progression and a borrowed chord from the parallel minor key is typical of alternative rock, which often explores darker themes and tends to have more complex harmonies than traditional pop and rock music.
What are the chords in: Radiohead – Creep – Bridge?
G, B, C, Cm, G, B, C, Cm
