Taylor Swift – Black Dog – Verse
Black Dog < All Analyses
Chord Progression
C, C/E, C/F, C/G, C, C/E, C/F, C/G, Am, F
Chord Progression Analysis
The verse of “Black Dog” uses a series of chords based primarily around the key of C major, with a focus on decorative variations of the C major chord:
“`
C Major (I)
C/E (I/E)
C/F (I/F)
C/G (I/G)
A Minor (vi)
F Major (IV)
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These chord variations do not include borrowed chords; they are inversions and slash chords that enhance the harmonic texture without leaving the key’s established framework.
Similar Chord Progressions
The technique of using a pedal tone or repeating a chord while changing bass notes is a common device in many genres, creating a sense of continuity and cohesion. Here are similar progressions in other songs:
The Beatles – “Let It Be”
Progression:
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C Major (I),
G/B (V/B),
A Minor (vi),
F Major (IV),
C/G (I/G),
F Major (IV),
C/E (I/E),
D Minor (ii),
C Major (I)
“`
Coldplay – “Fix You”
Progression:
“`
C Major (I),
E/G# (III/G#),
Am (vi),
Fmaj7 (IVmaj7)
“`
Simon & Garfunkel – “The Boxer”
Progression:
“`
C Major (I),
C/B (I/B),
Am (vi),
G (V)
“`
These examples showcase how a central chord, varied through bass note alterations or inversions, can be used to create depth and interest in a song’s arrangement. Taylor Swift’s “Black Dog” adopts this technique within a pop-folk framework, providing a platform for expressive lyrical content coupled with an engaging musical narrative.
Musical Analysis
The use of slash chords—C/E, C/F, C/G—provides a bass line movement that gives the illusion of a more complex progression while essentially remaining on the tonic (C Major). This technique creates a smooth, flowing sound that enriches the harmonic landscape without complicating the song’s overall structure.
The progression culminates with a move to A Minor and F Major, introducing a mild narrative tension and melancholy that enhances the song’s lyrical themes. This transition from a static harmonic environment into more emotive chords sets up a reflective and introspective mood, suitable for the storytelling nature of Swift’s lyrics.
Overall Analysis
Taylor Swift’s “Black Dog” features a verse chord progression that is both simple and evocative, utilizing variations of the tonic chord to create a sense of movement and build tension before resolving into more straightforward chord changes. This kind of progression is characteristic of songs that aim to evoke a contemplative or narrative-driven mood, which is a frequent theme in Swift’s songwriting.
Style Analysis
In “Black Dog,” Swift’s approach can be seen as a blend of folk and pop elements, utilizing simple chord structures embellished with subtle complexities like slash chords to keep the arrangement engaging yet accessible. This style is effective for drawing listeners into the song’s narrative while maintaining musical interest with the bass movement created by the slash chords.
What are the chords in: Taylor Swift – Black Dog – Verse?
C, C/E, C/F, C/G, C, C/E, C/F, C/G, Am, F
