Radiohead – Exit Music For A Film – Verse 2
Exit Music For A Film < All Analyses
Chord Progression
Am, E, C/G, Dadd9/F#, Am, E, Asus4, A
Chord Progression Analysis
“`
A minor (i),
E major (V),
C major / G (VI/G),
Dadd9 / F# (IVadd9/F#),
A minor (i),
E major (V),
Asus4 (i sus4),
A major (I)
“`
Borrowed chords:
“`
C major / G (VI/G) and Dadd9 / F# (IVadd9/F#)
“`
Similar Chord Progressions
1. Pink Floyd – “Breathe” Chord progression:
“`
Em9 (ii9),
A7sus4 (IV7 sus4),
A7 (IV7),
Dmaj7 (VII maj7),
Fmaj7#11 (III maj7 #11)
“`
2. Coldplay – “Clocks” Chord progression:
“`
Ebmaj7 (III maj7),
Bbm/Bb (iii),
Fm/Bb (vi11),
Gm/C (vii7/C)
“`
These chord progressions are examples of other artists incorporating non-diatonic and creative harmonic structures in their compositions, similar to Radiohead’s “Exit Music (For a Film).”
Musical Analysis
The chord progression includes tension-creating elements, such as the non-diatonic Dadd9/F# (over the F# bass note), which can be seen as a borrowed chord from the parallel major (A major) and the VI chord in first inversion (C/G). Another point of interest is the E major chord which appears twice and works as a dominant chord to lead back to A minor and A major at different points. The progression also features a brief moment of suspension with Asus4, resolving to A major. These elements give the chord progression a sense of disorientation, moodiness, and emotional depth.
Overall Analysis
“Exit Music (For a Film)” by Radiohead features a unique and somewhat complex chord progression, particularly in the second verse. The song can be viewed as being in A minor, with various borrowed chords and non-diatonic chords. The chord progression reflects Radiohead’s experimental and innovative approach to harmony and songwriting.
Style Analysis
Radiohead is known for their innovative and unconventional approach to songwriting and harmony. “Exit Music (For a Film)” exemplifies this style by incorporating non-diatonic and borrowed chords, creating an unsettling and emotional atmosphere. This type of chord progression is characteristic of alternative and art rock styles, where traditional musical boundaries are often pushed.
What are the chords in: Radiohead – Exit Music For A Film – Verse 2?
Am, E, C/G, Dadd9/F#, Am, E, Asus4, A
