The Animals – House Of The Rising Sun – Verse 2
House Of The Rising Sun < All Analyses
Chord Progression
Am, C, D, F, Am, C, E, E, Am, C, D, F, Am, E, Am, C, D, F, Am, E, Am, E
Chord Progression Analysis
A minor (i) – C major (III) – D major (IV) – F major (VI) – A minor (i) – C major (III) – E major (V) – E major (V) – A minor (i) – C major (III) – D major (IV) – F major (VI) – A minor (i) – E major (V) – A minor (i) – C major (III) – D major (IV) – F major (VI) – A minor (i) – E major (V) – A minor (i) – E major (V)
`Borrowed Chord: D major (IV)`
Similar Chord Progressions
1. Bob Dylan’s “All Along the Watchtower”: Am (i) – G (VII) – F (VI) – G (VII)
2. Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah”: Am (i) – C (III) – G (VII) – F (VI) – C (III) – G (VII) – Am (i) – F (VI) – G (VII) – E (V)
While these examples may not precisely share the same progression as “House of The Rising Sun,” they showcase some similar elements. Both “All Along the Watchtower” and “Hallelujah” use combinations of diatonic and borrowed chords in a cyclic fashion, with strong cadential resolutions and an evocative quality akin to The Animals’ classic hit.
Musical Analysis
The most notable element of this progression is the use of the borrowed chord, which adds tension and interest to the song. In the key of A minor, the diatonic IV chord would typically be D minor; however, The Animals have chosen to use a D major chord instead. This introduces an F#, which creates a distinct chromaticism in the progression. This borrowing of a major chord from the parallel major key is referred to as modal interchange.
Another interesting aspect of the progression is the cadential patterns created by the alternating use of the E major chord. E major serves as the dominant (V) chord, providing a strong sense of resolution back to the A minor (i) chord. This gives the progression a cyclic, revolving quality that helps to maintain a forward momentum throughout the verse.
Overall Analysis
The chord progression in the verse 2 of “House of The Rising Sun” by The Animals is an iconic progression in popular music. The song is in the key of A minor, and is built using diatonic and borrowed chords with some chromaticism. The progression features a strong sense of movement and resolution, with the mix of major and minor chords creating an emotional and dramatic atmosphere.
Style Analysis
The chord progression and overall style of “House of The Rising Sun” are highly evocative of the British Invasion era of rock music. The combination of minor chords and chromaticism create a sense of melancholy and emotional depth, while the strong, driving rhythm of the progression speaks to the powerful, emotive performances that characterized this period in music history. The influence of American folk, blues, and early rock and roll can also be sensed in the progression and accompanying melody, adding to the timelessness of this classic song.
What are the chords in: The Animals – House Of The Rising Sun – Verse 2?
Am, C, D, F, Am, C, E, E, Am, C, D, F, Am, E, Am, C, D, F, Am, E, Am, E
