Taylor Swift – Anti-Hero – Chorus
Anti-Hero < All Analyses
Chord Progression
Aadd9, E, B, c#m7
Chord Progression Analysis
The chorus in “Anti-Hero” continues in the key of E major and includes the following chords:
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A add9 (IVadd9)
E Major (Imaj)
B Major (V)
C# Minor 7 (vim7)
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This progression stays within the key’s diatonic framework, and no borrowed chords are utilized. The addition of the add9 in the A chord provides a subtle but effective texture change, enhancing the lyrical delivery’s emotional impact.
Similar Chord Progressions
The IV-I-V-vi progression is a staple in pop music due to its pleasing harmonic movement and emotional effectiveness. Here are similar progressions in other popular songs:
Ed Sheeran – “Perfect”
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G Major (IV)
D Major (I)
E Minor (vi)
C Major (V)
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Beyoncé – “Halo”
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A Major (IV)
F# Minor (vi)
D Major (I)
E Major (V)
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Alicia Keys – “If I Ain’t Got You”
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G# Minor (vi)
C# Major (III)
F# Major (IV)
B Major (I)
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These examples demonstrate how similar harmonic structures can evoke a wide range of emotions, from romantic ballads to empowering anthems, illustrating the versatility of this chord sequence. Taylor Swift’s interpretation in “Anti-Hero” adds her unique twist by incorporating add9 and m7 chords, thus enriching the standard progression to better serve her narrative and stylistic objectives.
Musical Analysis
In the chorus, the A add9 chord introduces a subtle nuance compared to the A Major 7 used in the verse. The add9 chord includes an additional tone that offers a richer, more expansive sound, setting the chorus apart from the verse with its fuller harmonic texture. This choice enhances the soaring quality of the melody and supports the heightened emotional expression typical of a song’s chorus.
The progression IVadd9 – Imaj – V – vim7 is particularly effective in pop music for driving the melody forward and underpinning the song’s main thematic messages with a robust emotional foundation. The consistent return to the E Major (Imaj) roots the progression in a familiar tonal center, providing a sense of resolution and comfort amid the lyrical exploration of personal themes.
Overall Analysis
The chorus of Taylor Swift’s “Anti-Hero” utilizes a chord progression that elevates the song’s emotional resonance, serving as a climactic counterpart to the reflective verses. This section combines lush harmonies with straightforward pop sensibilities, creating a poignant and memorable musical moment that aligns with the song’s thematic exploration of self-awareness and complexity.
Style Analysis
Taylor Swift’s use of extended chords in “Anti-Hero” reflects her sophisticated approach to pop music composition. In the chorus, the textural variations introduced by the A add9 and C#m7 chords align with contemporary pop trends favoring emotional depth and sonic richness. This approach not only appeals to a wide audience but also showcases Swift’s growth as a songwriter who can blend pop accessibility with artistic depth seamlessly.
What are the chords in: Taylor Swift – Anti-Hero – Chorus?
Aadd9, E, B, c#m7
