Radiohead – Creep – Verse 1
Creep < All Analyses
Chord Progression
G, B, C, Cm, G, B, C, Cm
Chord Progression Analysis
– G major (I)
– B major (III)
– C major (IV)
– C minor (iv)
“`Borrowed chord: C minor (iv)“`
Similar Chord Progressions
1. “Space Oddity” by David Bowie:
– C major (I)
– E minor (iii)
– F major (IV)
– F minor (iv)
2. “Zombie” by The Cranberries:
– E minor (i)
– C major (VI)
– G major (III)
– D major (VII)
3. “Imagine” by John Lennon:
– C major (I)
– C major7 (Imaj7)
– F major (IV)
– C major (I)
These chord progressions are similar to Radiohead’s “Creep” in the sense that they use the technique of borrowing chords from parallel keys, or follow a distinct four-chord pattern that is common in popular music, particularly in the alternative rock genre.
Musical Analysis
The song uses a diatonic chord progression with one borrowed chord (C minor) that provides a unique color to the harmony. This borrowed chord, C minor, is taken from the parallel minor key, creating a sudden shift in tonality that adds to the emotional impact of the song. This modal interchange is common in popular music, particularly in alternative rock.
The verses have a slow tempo and a 4/4 time signature, giving the music an overall somber tone. The melody in the vocal line is based around the G major scale and moves back and forth between the G and B notes, with the occasional pitch bending that complements the overall melancholic atmosphere of the song.
Overall Analysis
“Creep” by Radiohead is a song that features a well-known four-chord progression throughout the verses. This progression is G – B – C – Cm, which is often considered one of the factors that contribute to the song’s memorable and emotional quality. The chord progression helps create a melancholic and haunting atmosphere in the song. This song is notably influenced by alternative rock and grunge styles from the early 90s.
Style Analysis
“Creep” showcases the distinct style of Radiohead that set them apart in the early 90s. It features a combination of traditional rock instrumentation with electric guitars, bass, and drums, but also includes orchestral elements, particularly the use of strings in the chorus. The recording techniques, such as the use of reverb and layering of the vocals, contribute to the dark and brooding character of the song. The song’s lyrics are introspective and self-deprecating, which became a hallmark of alternative rock and grunge in the 90s.
What are the chords in: Radiohead – Creep – Verse 1?
G, B, C, Cm, G, B, C, Cm
