Radiohead – Exit Music For A Film – Outro
Exit Music For A Film < All Analyses
Chord Progression
Am, E, C/G, Dadd9/F#, Dadd9/F, Am, E, Asus4, A, Am, E, Asus4, A, Am, E, Asus4, A
Chord Progression Analysis
“`
Am (i),
E (V),
C/G (VI6),
Dadd9/F# (VII with an added 9th and first inversion),
Dadd9/F (VII with an added 9th and flat sixth in the bass),
Am (i),
E (V),
Asus4 (IVsus4),
A (IV),
Am (i),
E (V),
Asus4 (IVsus4),
A (IV),
Am (i),
E (V),
Asus4 (IVsus4),
A (IV)
“`
Borrowed Chords:
“`
Dadd9/F# – Borrowed from A dorian mode
Dadd9/F – Borrowed from A phrygian mode
“`
Similar Chord Progressions
1. “Space Oddity” by David Bowie:
“`
C (I),
Em (iii),
Cmaj7 (Imaj7),
C (I),
C (I),
E7 (III7),
Fmaj7 (IVmaj7),
Fm (iv),
C (I),
E7 (III7),
F (IV),
Fm (iv),
C (I)
“`
2. “Shiver” by Coldplay:
“`
Bsus2 (I),
G#sus4 (Sixth Chord in first inversion),
C#m (iv),
Bsus2 (I),
G#m (vi),
Bsus2 (I),
G#sus4 (Sixth Chord in first inversion),
C#m (iv)
“`
Musical Analysis
The progression begins with a classic i-V movement from Am to E, which adds a sense of tension and urgency. The following C/G is a borrowed VI chord that adds more texture by being in the first inversion, giving a richer and smoother harmonic motion. This is followed by the Dadd9/F#, which adds an interesting modal interchange from the A dorian mode, and contrasts nicely with the next chord, Dadd9/F, borrowed from the A phrygian mode. The chromatic descending bass movement from F# to F in these chords creates an intriguing color within the progression.
The rest of the progression consists of repetitions and variations of the initial pattern, with V-IVsus4-IV giving a sense of resolve between the repetitions. The use of sus4 chords adds an open, suspended feeling, which helps build tension throughout. The progression concludes by revisiting the i-V movement, providing a sense of closure.
Overall Analysis
The Outro of “Exit Music (For a Film)” by Radiohead features a striking and emotive chord progression that showcases their innovative approach to harmony. It is characterized by the use of irregular modal interchanges, sustained chords, and slight variations on repeating patterns.
Style Analysis
Radiohead is known for their unique approach to harmony and composition. The usage of modal interchange, unconventional chord voicings, and the delicate balance of tension and release in “Exit Music (For a Film)” truly reflects their innovative and influential style. Thom Yorke’s haunting vocal melodies over these sophisticated progressions further contribute to the eeriness and contemplative mood of the piece.
What are the chords in: Radiohead – Exit Music For A Film – Outro?
Am, E, C/G, Dadd9/F#, Dadd9/F, Am, E, Asus4, A, Am, E, Asus4, A, Am, E, Asus4, A
