Radiohead – Nude – Verse 1
Nude < All Analyses
Chord Progression
G#m, G#, A, E, C#m, B7, G#m, G#, A, E, C#m
Chord Progression Analysis
G#m: G# minor (i)
G#: G# major (I/♭III)
A: A major (IV)
E: E major (V)
C#m: C# minor (vi)
B7: B dominant 7 (V7)
G#m: G# minor (i)
G#: G# major (I/♭III)
A: A major (IV)
E: E major (V)
C#m: C# minor (vi)
Borrowed Chord:
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G# major (I/♭III)
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Similar Chord Progressions
1. Coldplay – “Fix You” Verse Chord Progression:
C: C major (I)
Em: E minor (iii)
Am: A minor (vi)
G: G major (V)
F: F major (IV)
C: C major (I)
F: F major (IV)
G: G major (V)
2. Muse – “Falling Away with You” Chorus Chord Progression:
Em: E minor (i)
D: D major (VII)
G: G major (IV)
C: C major (VI)
Am: A minor (v)
B: B major (I/♭III)
In both examples, unexpected harmonic shifts and borrowed chords create engaging and emotional chord progressions.
Musical Analysis
The chord progression in “Nude” begins with a G# minor chord (i), which establishes a dark, introspective tone. This mood is further intensified with the unexpected shift to a borrowed major chord, G# major (I/♭III). This chromatic alteration invokes a sense of tension, which resolves somewhat as the progression moves to the A major chord (IV). From there, the E major (V) and C# minor chords (vi) help ground the progression in its original key of G# minor, before the B dominant 7 (V7) chord adds a touch of tension leading back to the beginning of the sequence.
Overall Analysis
The chord progression in the verse of Radiohead’s “Nude” sets a contemplative and emotive atmosphere. It features a mix of diatonic and borrowed chords, which creates unexpected harmonic shifts that evoke feelings of melancholy. This distinctive harmonic language can be associated with the band’s signature moody sound and has been influential in the indie and alternative rock genres.
Style Analysis
“Nude” displays a unique blend of contemporary rock, alternative, and even some classic tonal harmony elements. Unlike standard pop progressions that often rely on simpler diatonic harmony, Radiohead borrows chords from other modes, such as the G# major (I/♭III). This quality exemplifies the band’s desire to explore new harmonic pathways and innovate within their musical style. The result is a captivating and emotional sound that has been a part of Radiohead’s aesthetic throughout their career.
What are the chords in: Radiohead – Nude – Verse 1?
G#m, G#, A, E, C#m, B7, G#m, G#, A, E, C#m
