Radiohead – Creep – Verse 2
Creep < All Analyses
Chord Progression
G, B, C, Cm, G, B, C, Cm
Chord Progression Analysis
The full chord names and roman numerals for the verse 2 of “Creep” are as follows:
G major (I) – B major (III) – C major (IV) – C minor (iv)
`C minor (iv)` is a borrowed chord from the parallel minor key (G minor).
Similar Chord Progressions
1. The Beatles – “While My Guitar Gently Weeps”
Chord progression: A minor (i) – A major/C# (I/VI) – C# minor (iii) – C major (bIII)
2. Muse – “Unintended”
Chord progression: D major (I) – G minor (iv) – Bb major (VI) – A major (V)
These alternative rock songs also feature a mix of diatonic and borrowed chords, which create a sound similar to “Creep” and showcase the emotional power of such progressions.
Musical Analysis
The chord progression in verse 2 of “Creep” starts with the tonic chord (G major), which then moves in a circle of fifths motion to B major (III). This choice is interesting, as the iii chord rarely appears in pop music progressions. Next, the progression moves a whole step up to the C major chord, which is the subdominant (IV) chord. Finally, C minor (iv) is used as a borrowed chord from G minor, which creates a strong emotional contrast and sets up the return to the tonic chord. The repetition of this progression emphasizes the tension and release that the progression creates.
Overall Analysis
“Creep” by Radiohead is a song in the key of G major that features a four-chord progression in its verse 2, which is distinctive for its use of a borrowed chord from the parallel minor (G minor). Although the song’s simple harmonic structure is quite common in pop music, its use of a borrowed chord adds an element of surprise and emotional depth, establishing Radiohead’s unique sound.
Style Analysis
“Creep” is a song that belongs to the alternative rock genre and was released in 1992 as part of Radiohead’s debut album, “Pablo Honey.” The song features Thom Yorke’s haunting vocals, layered guitar sounds, and poignant lyrics that tap into themes of self-loathing and isolation. The use of the borrowed iv chord in the progression adds to the melancholic and unsettling atmosphere that characterizes much of Radiohead’s music.
What are the chords in: Radiohead – Creep – Verse 2?
G, B, C, Cm, G, B, C, Cm
