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The verse of Taylor Swift’s “ME!” features a chord progression that is archetypal for upbeat pop music, echoing themes of brightness and positivity. This progression harnesses straightforward harmonic movement to support the song’s enthusiastic vibe, making it highly effective for conveying the song’s message of self-love and confidence.

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.

“Bullet With Butterfly Wings” by The Smashing Pumpkins is an alternative rock song released in 1995. The song is in the key of E minor and primarily uses power chords derived from the E minor scale throughout the song. Power chords or ‘5’ chords, like B5 or G5, don’t have a major or minor quality and are often used in rock music for their strong and neutral sound. The song also applies modal mixture (borrowing chords from parallel keys) for color and tension.

“Knights of Cydonia” by Muse features a harmonically straightforward chord progression within the rock style. This progression is primarily based in the key of E minor and centers around the Em, Bm, and A chords. Throughout the song, the driving rhythm, vocal melodies, and transitions between different sections contribute to its energetic and dramatic qualities.

“Bennie And The Jets” by Elton John, released in 1973, features a distinctive chord progression that exemplifies Elton’s advanced harmonic sensibility and taste for grand piano-based balladry. The song is mainly in the key of G Major.

Taylor Swift – Me – Chorus

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Chord Progression

C, Am, F, G, G7

Chord Progression Analysis

The chord progression used in the chorus of “ME!” remains faithful to the key of C major and consists of the following chords:

“`
C Major (I)
A Minor (vi)
F Major (IV)
G Major (V)
G7 (V7)
“`

This progression is entirely diatonic to the key of C major, containing no borrowed chords. It cycles through a basic but effective I-vi-IV-V pattern, a staple in pop music, which is rounded off with the addition of a G7 chord to add a slight tension before resolving back to the tonic.

Similar Chord Progressions

The I-vi-IV-V progression is immensely popular in various music genres, particularly in pop and rock, due to its harmonic fullness and versatility. Here are similar progressions in other well-known songs:

The Beatles – “Let It Be”
“`
C Major (I)
G Major (V)
A Minor (vi)
F Major (IV)
“`

Maroon 5 – “She Will Be Loved”
“`
C Major (I)
G Major (V)
A Minor (vi)
F Major (IV)
“`

Bob Marley – “No Woman, No Cry”
“`
C Major (I)
G Major (V)
A Minor (vi)
F Major (IV)
“`

These songs demonstrate the universal appeal of the I-vi-IV-V progression, each employing it in a way that supports their unique stylistic and thematic content. In “ME!”, Taylor Swift adds her personal touch with upbeat, cheerful instrumentation and production choices that emphasize the song’s playful and empowering message.

Musical Analysis

The use of the I-vi-IV-V pattern in “ME!” is classic and straightforward, providing a solid, uplifting foundation that complements the song’s upbeat lyrics and melodies. The progression is inherently pleasing and easy to listen to, making it highly suitable for a pop anthem that celebrates individuality and fun.

The addition of the G7 chord at the end of the cycle introduces a touch of dissonance, enhancing the resolution back to the tonic C Major. This use of a dominant seventh chord heightens anticipation and keeps the listener engaged, adding a dynamic element to the otherwise predictable pattern.

Overall Analysis

The chorus of Taylor Swift’s song “ME!” employs a bright and catchy chord progression that’s emblematic of pop music’s joyful and exuberant character. This progression underpins the song’s themes of self-affirmation and positivity, making it an infectious and memorable part of the track.

Style Analysis

Taylor Swift’s “ME!” is a quintessential pop track, utilizing bright, major chords and rhythmic, sing-along melodies that align with the genre’s appeal to broad audiences. The straightforward chord progression underscores Swift’s ability to craft songs that are both catchy and emotionally resonant, maintaining simplicity in structure to ensure the focus remains on the lyrics and melodic hooks.

Chords in the Chorus section of ME! by Taylor Swift are:

C, Am, F, G, G7