Taylor Swift – Guilty as Sin? – Verse
Guilty as Sin? < All Analyses
Chord Progression
Bm7, Gmaj7, Bm7, Gmaj7
Chord Progression Analysis
The verse of “Guilty as Sin?” employs a minimalistic yet evocative chord progression that alternates between two chords in the key of D major:
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B Minor 7 (vim7)
G Major 7 (IVmaj7)
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This progression stays within the key, emphasizing a soothing yet poignant harmonic backdrop. There are no borrowed chords in this sequence, maintaining a diatonic consistency that focuses on depth and emotion.
Similar Chord Progressions
The alternation between a minor seventh and a major seventh chord, while not the most common in pop music, can be found in various genres, especially in jazz and soul. Here are some examples of similar chord progressions in other songs:
Norah Jones – “Don’t Know Why”
Progression:
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B♭ Minor 7 (vim7),
E♭ Major 7 (IVmaj7)
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Sade – “No Ordinary Love”
Progression:
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A Minor 7 (vim7),
D Major 7 (IVmaj7)
“`
D’Angelo – “Untitled (How Does It Feel)”
Progression:
“`
E Minor 7 (vim7),
A Major 7 (IVmaj7)
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These songs show how minor seventh to major seventh progressions can effectively convey a range of emotional nuances, from longing and love to introspection and resolve. Taylor Swift’s “Guilty as Sin?” adopts this approach within a pop framework, showcasing her ability to blend complex emotions with accessible music.
Musical Analysis
The use of Bm7 and Gmaj7 in the verse creates a soothing and somewhat introspective atmosphere. The minor seventh chord (Bm7) adds a touch of melancholy, reflecting the song’s emotional themes, while the major seventh (Gmaj7) brings a sense of resolution and warmth, balancing the minor chord’s introspective quality.
The alternation between these chords sets a reflective tone, allowing the melody and lyrics to explore deeper emotional territories. This musical setting is ideal for storytelling, enabling Swift to deliver her narrative with both vulnerability and a polished musical canvas.
Overall Analysis
“Guilty as Sin?” by Taylor Swift uses a chord progression in the verse that reflects a more nuanced and reflective approach, suitable for a song with a contemplative or emotive theme. The interplay between minor and major seventh chords creates a lush, complex sound that elevates the song’s introspective and somewhat moody lyrical content.
Style Analysis
In “Guilty as Sin?”, Taylor Swift’s use of seventh chords suggests a style that leans towards sophisticated pop or even jazz influences. This approach is indicative of her evolution as an artist, exploring more complex harmonies and mature themes in her music. The chord progression’s simplicity, coupled with its emotional depth, aligns well with Swift’s narrative-driven songwriting, providing a perfect backdrop for her expressive vocals.
What are the chords in: Taylor Swift – Guilty as Sin? – Verse?
Bm7, Gmaj7, Bm7, Gmaj7
