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The chord progression in the outro of “Fake Plastic Trees” by Radiohead utilizes some common and some less common harmonic devices. The piece employs diatonic chords with some added extensions, giving a sense of tension and release. Furthermore, the progression is in the key of A major, which contributes to the overall tonality and harmonic structure.

The verse 2 chord progression of Radiohead’s “Everything In Its Right Place” demonstrates a combination of diatonic and non-diatonic chords with tonal ambiguity, frequent use of borrowed chords from parallel modes, and modulation. The progression has a cyclic, hypnotic quality with occasional surprises due to large leaps in pitch and unexpected, non-diatonic chords.

The given chord progression is from Beck’s song “Sexx Laws” and runs as follows: B, G#, B, G#, B, G#, A, F#. This progression features chords mainly from the B Major key, but includes borrowed chords from the parallel minor key as well. The harmonic movement showcases Beck’s interesting approach to songwriting and shows some influence from the soul and funk genres.

“Paper Tiger” by Beck is a unique and stylistic piece, displaying a blend of various genres and influences. The verse 2 chord progression is quite simple, but the harmonic choices create tension and provide a sense of movement throughout the progression. Combining the elements of rock, folk, and alternative music, this chord progression is both intriguing and musically satisfying.

The chord progression featured in Radiohead’s “Motion Picture Soundtrack” Verse 2 is a four-chord loop that moves from G major to C major (acting as a suspension) and B minor (with an added 9th), creating an interesting mix of tonalities and suspensions. The progression establishes G major as the tonal center but continually moves away from it, creating a sense of ambiguity.

Radiohead – Fake Plastic Trees – Verse 2

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Chord Progression

A, Asus4, Dmaj9/F#, Dmaj9/F#, E6, Dsus2, A, Dsus2, A, Asus4, Dmaj9/F#, Dmaj9/F#, E6, Dsus2, A, Dsus2

Chord Progression Analysis

A (I), Asus4 (Iadd4), Dmaj9/F# (IVmaj9), Dmaj9/F# (IVmaj9), E6 (V6), Dsus2 (IVsus2), A (I), Dsus2 (IVsus2), A (I), Asus4 (Iadd4), Dmaj9/F# (IVmaj9), Dmaj9/F# (IVmaj9), E6 (V6), Dsus2 (IVsus2), A (I), Dsus2 (IVsus2)

Similar Chord Progressions

1. Jeff Buckley – Hallelujah: C (I), Am (vi), C (I), Am (vi), F (IV), G (V), C (I), G (V), C (I), F (IV), G (V), E (III), Am (vi)

2. Coldplay – Yellow: A (I), Aadd4 (Iadd4), Asus2 (Isus2), Dmaj7 (IVmaj7), Esus4 (Vsus4), E (V), Dsus2 (IVsus2), A (I)

While these chord progressions are not identical, they share some common elements with “Fake Plastic Trees,” including the use of extended chords, unexpected harmonic shifts, and a blend of major and minor tonalities.

Musical Analysis

The chord progression prominently features the I, IV, and V chords, which are the primary building blocks of many genres, including pop and rock music. However, Radiohead’s choice to use chord extensions (e.g., maj9, sus2, and add4) and inversions (Dmaj9/F#) adds complexity and intrigue.

The use of borrowed chords such as the Dmaj9/F# (IVmaj9) gives a sense of movement and color, while the inclusion of extended chords like Asus4 (Iadd4), Dmaj9/F# (IVmaj9), and E6 (V6) gives the progression a dreamy, ambient feel. Additionally, the sus2 chords provide harmonic tension and drivemotivating the progression forward. The alternation between major and minor chords throughout the verse further contributes to the emotional depth of the song.

Overall Analysis

“Fake Plastic Trees” by Radiohead is a haunting and introspective ballad that features an evocative chord progression. The progression appears to have been influenced by alternative rock and combines elements of both major and minor tonalities, as well as non-diatonic and diatonic chords. This blend of harmonic flavors creates an unforgettable sound that is melancholic, yet beautiful.

Style Analysis

“Fake Plastic Trees” showcases Radiohead’s distinct alternative rock style. The combination of diatonic and non-diatonic chords, the use of extended chords and suspensions, and the blend of major and minor chords demonstrate the band’s creativity and their departure from traditional songwriting norms. The chord progression serves to solidify Radiohead’s reputation for crafting innovative and emotionally potent soundscapes.

Chords in the Verse 2 section of Fake Plastic Trees by Radiohead are:

A, Asus4, Dmaj9/F#, Dmaj9/F#, E6, Dsus2, A, Dsus2, A, Asus4, Dmaj9/F#, Dmaj9/F#, E6, Dsus2, A, Dsus2