Music Theory Alchemy

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“You And Whose Army?” by Radiohead is an alternative rock song featuring an interesting chord progression in the bridge. The chord progression is characterized by its dynamic movement and integration of non-diatonic chords. The progression is in the key of C# minor, and it displays unique qualities that allow it to stand out from traditional chord progressions. The combination of borrowed chords and voice leading creates a sense of tension and excitement, which contributes to the song’s overall atmosphere.

“Creep” by Radiohead is a song in the key of G major that features a four-chord progression in its verse 2, which is distinctive for its use of a borrowed chord from the parallel minor (G minor). Although the song’s simple harmonic structure is quite common in pop music, its use of a borrowed chord adds an element of surprise and emotional depth, establishing Radiohead’s unique sound.

Radiohead – You And Whose Army – Ending

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Chord Progression

A, C#m, B-5, B-5

Chord Progression Analysis

A (I): A major triad
C#m (vi): C# minor triad
B-5 (V(no3)): B power chord (no third)
B-5 (V(no3)): B power chord (no third)

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Borrowed Chords: None in this progression
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Similar Chord Progressions

1. Oasis – “Wonderwall”:
D (I) – Dsus4 (Isus4) – Dmaj7 (Imaj7) – D6 (I6)

2. The Beatles – “Let It Be”:
C (I) – G (V) – Am (vi) – F (IV) – C (I) – G (V) – F (IV) – C (I)

3. Nirvana – “Smells Like Teen Spirit”:
Fm (i) – Bb5 (IV(no3)) – Ab5 (III(no3)) – Db5 (VI(no3))

Although these chord progressions by other artists have different chords, they share certain characteristics, such as the use of power chords, and the blending of major and minor chords, which is a common feature in various genres of rock music.

Musical Analysis

The progression begins with the A major chord (I) which establishes A as the tonic or key center of the piece. Following the tonic chord is the C#m chord (vi), which is the relative minor of the E major (IV) chord, and it provides a darker, more melancholic sound.

The next two chords are the same B-5 power chord, serving as a V(no3) chord. The absence of a third in the B-5 chord adds an ambiguous quality to the chord, which is a common technique in various kinds of rock music, including Radiohead’s alternative rock style. The repetition of the B-5 chord creates a sense of tension and anticipation that may give the listener the expectation of a return back to the A major chord (I), completing the musical phrase.

Overall Analysis

The given chord progression for the ending of Radiohead’s “You And Whose Army?” is in the key of A major. There are four chords in the progression: A, C#m, B-5, and B-5. Overall, it follows a relatively simple harmonic structure that incorporates power chords and a chromatic neighbor tone in the bass.

Style Analysis

In the context of Radiohead’s alternative rock style, this chord progression showcases some essential elements, such as the use of power chords and mixing major and minor chords. The progression is simple yet effective in evoking emotion, which is a notable characteristic of many Radiohead songs. The use of the B-5 power chord adds texture and depth to the otherwise straightforward harmonic structure.

Chords in the Ending section of You And Whose Army by Radiohead are:

A, C#m, B-5, B-5