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Related Music Theory Alchemy

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“Zombie” by The Cranberries features a relatively commonly used chord progression in pop/rock music, often referred to as a ‘vi-IV-I-V’ progression. This chord progression, in this particular case, is in the key of G Major and is made up of four chords: Em, C, G, and D/F#.

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The song ‘Zombie’ by The Cranberries is in the key of E minor. Its defining characteristics include plaintive repeated melodies, an intense grunge-inspired arrangement, and Dolores O’Riordan’s iconic vocal embellishments. The song employs a common rock/pop chord progression with added tension by using the D/F# chord.

“Fake Plastic Trees” by Radiohead is a haunting and introspective ballad that features an evocative chord progression. The progression appears to have been influenced by alternative rock and combines elements of both major and minor tonalities, as well as non-diatonic and diatonic chords. This blend of harmonic flavors creates an unforgettable sound that is melancholic, yet beautiful.

“A Star Is Born – Shallow” by Misc Soundtrack uses common chords found in pop music and combines them in a fresh way. The progression makes use of diatonic chords and even includes a borrowed chord from the parallel minor key. It showcases a feasible balance of tension and resolution, often transitioning through a variety of chord inversions to add color and depth to the harmonies. The song moves around the circle of fifths, which allows for smooth transitions between keys.

“Feels Like We Only Go Backwards” by Tame Impala is a psychedelic pop song notable for its dreamy, lo-fi sound and use of unconventional chord progressions. Musically, the song is written in the key of F major, but creatively uses chromatic mediants, borrowed chords, and modal interchange to establish a unique harmony. The song also uses dynamic contrast to create a dreamlike atmosphere, increasing the song’s overall psychedelic effect.

The Cranberries – Zombie – Verse 2

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Chord Progression

[‘Em’, ‘C’, ‘G’, ‘D/F#’, ‘Em’, ‘C’, ‘G’, ‘D/F#’, ‘Em’, ‘C’, ‘G’, ‘D/F#’, ‘Em’, ‘C’, ‘G’, ‘D/F#’]

Chord Progression Analysis

Here are the chords sequenced in the way you specified:

– E minor (i)
– C major (VI)
– G major (III)
– D/F# (VII)

Note the VII chord is in first inversion with its third (F#) in the bass, hence D/F#.

The progression is repeated throughout the verse.

Similar Chord Progressions

1. “Let it Be” by The Beatles follows the exact same progression, transposed to the key of C major, giving us: C – G – Am – F (or: I – V – vi – IV)
2. “No Woman No Cry” by Bob Marley, also follows the same progression, transposed to the key of C major: C – G – Am – F.

Musical Analysis

“Zombie” by The Cranberries uses simple, yet effective means in its composition. It repeats a four-chord pattern (Em – C – G – D/F#) throughout the song to maintain a consistent musical theme. What makes it truly stand out is how it utilizes this simplicity to serve the song’s emotional core. The repeated E minor chord offers a haunting sadness that reflects the song’s lyrical themes.

Overall Analysis

“Zombie” by The Cranberries is in the key of E minor. Its structure is generally pop and rock, with the power of distorted guitars and a heavy drumbeat complemented by Dolores O’Riordan’s haunting vocals. It utilizes a four-chord progression, which is common in many pop and rock tracks and has been a popular choice amongst songwriters for its simplicity and versatility.

Style Analysis

“Zombie” fits in the Alternative Rock style, more specifically in the Post-Grunge movement of the 90’s. Distorted guitars, a heavy rhythm, and clear expressive melodic lines are characteristics of this style. The sequence of chords is conventional in pop music, and they have been used in different styles and periods.

Chords in the Verse 2 section of Zombie by The Cranberries are:

[‘Em’, ‘C’, ‘G’, ‘D/F#’, ‘Em’, ‘C’, ‘G’, ‘D/F#’, ‘Em’, ‘C’, ‘G’, ‘D/F#’, ‘Em’, ‘C’, ‘G’, ‘D/F#’]