Radiohead – Nude – Chorus
Nude < All Analyses
Chord Progression
B, G#m7, Aadd9, G#m7, Aadd9, C#m7, Aadd9
Chord Progression Analysis
B Major (I) – G#m7 (vi7) – Aadd9 (IIadd9) – G#m7 (vi7) – Aadd9 (IIadd9) – C#m7 (iii7) – Aadd9 (IIadd9)
`Borrowed chord: Aadd9 (IIadd9)`
Similar Chord Progressions
1. “Something” by The Beatles
C Major (I) – Cmaj7 (Imaj7) – C7 (I7) – F (IV) – D (II) – G (V) – Am (vi) – AmMaj7 (viMaj7) – Am7 (vi7) – Am6 (vi6)
`Borrowed chord: D Major (II)`
2. “Space Oddity” by David Bowie
Fmaj7 (I) – Em7 (ii7) – Aadd9 (IIIadd9) – Fmaj7 (I) – Em7 (ii7) – Aadd9 (IIIadd9)
`Borrowed chord: Aadd9 (IIIadd9)`
These songs feature borrowed chords and added tensions, similar to the chord progression used in “Nude” by Radiohead. They showcase a departure from diatonic progressions, employing unexpected harmonic shifts and contributing to the uniqueness of each song’s sound.
Musical Analysis
In the key of B Major, the chords built on the first, third, and sixth scale degrees (B, C#m, and G#m) are diatonic, while the Aadd9 chord is a borrowed chord from the parallel minor key (B minor). The use of the Aadd9 chord just a half step above the G#m7 chord creates a sense of tension and surprise, deviating from the more predictable path in diatonic progressions. This is a common feature in Radiohead’s music. The cycling back and forth between the G#m7 and Aadd9 chords adds a sense of uneasiness and ambiguity, while the concluding chord, C#m7, provides a sense of resolution within the progression.
Overall Analysis
The chord progression in the chorus of “Nude” by Radiohead features a mix of diatonic and borrowed chords, with some added tensions for additional color. It reflects the band’s signature style of blending unexpected harmonic elements to create a unique and evocative sound. In particular, the mix of major and minor chords with added tensions lends a sense of both familiarity and unconventionality to the progression.
Style Analysis
Radiohead is known for unconventional and creative uses of harmony, and this chord progression is no exception. The borrowed Aadd9 chord and added tensions in the chord progression create a more complex and unexpected harmony, straying from typical pop or rock chord progressions. This characteristically Radiohead style of pushing the boundaries of harmonic expectations contributes to the emotive, mysterious sound of “Nude.”
What are the chords in: Radiohead – Nude – Chorus?
B, G#m7, Aadd9, G#m7, Aadd9, C#m7, Aadd9