The Rolling Stones – As Tears Go By – Verse 3
As Tears Go By < All Analyses
Chord Progression
G, A, C, D, G, A, C, D, C, D, G, D/F#, Em, C, D
Chord Progression Analysis
Here is the chord progression for Verse 3, with full chord names and their Roman numeral notation:
G major (I) – A major (V/IV) – C major (IV) – D major (V) – G major (I) – A major (V/IV) – C major (IV) – D major (V) – C major (IV) – D major (V) – G major (I) – D/F# major (V/1st inversion) – E minor (vi) – C major (IV) – D major (V)
Borrowed Chord:
The A major chord can be considered a borrowed chord from the parallel minor key, G minor. The chord is used to create a brighter, more uplifting sound, and serves as a secondary dominant chord leading to C major.
Similar Chord Progressions
1. “Brown Eyed Girl” by Van Morrison
G major (I) – C major (IV) – G major (I) – D major (V) – C major (IV) – G major (I) – D major (V) – C major (IV) – D major (V)
2. “Wild World” by Cat Stevens
G major (I) – A major (V/IV) – C major (IV) – D major (V) – G major (I) – A major (V/IV) – C major (IV) – D major (V)
3. “More Than A Feeling” by Boston
G major (I) – A major (V/IV) – C major (IV) – D major (V) – G major (I)
“As Tears Go By” is an example of how a simple but effective chord progression can provide a strong foundation for memorable lyrics and melodies, resulting in a classic song that continues to be a favorite among fans of The Rolling Stones.
Musical Analysis
The progression starts with a standard I-IV-V (G-C-D) movement, but the addition of the A major chord (V/IV) adds a chromatic twist and an interesting leading tone effect to the otherwise diatonic progression. The non-diatonic A major chord introduces tension that is released when resolving to the C major chord. The first half of the progression is repeated before moving to a conclusive I-V-vi-IV-V (G-D/F#-Em-C-D) progression, which is a common way to end a verse or chorus in popular music.
Overall Analysis
“As Tears Go By” by The Rolling Stones is a classic rock ballad featuring a simple, yet effective chord progression and harmonic language. The song is in the key of G major, and the chord progression features a mix of diatonic chords from the G major scale, with the non-diatonic A major chord included as a borrowed chord from the parallel minor (G minor) key.
Style Analysis
The Rolling Stones were heavily influenced by American blues and R&B, and “As Tears Go By” is an example of their attempt to present a more sensitive, introspective side of the band’s sound. The simple, folk-like chord progression, along with Jagger’s nostalgic and emotional lyrics, create a sentimental and poetic atmosphere that reflects the song’s title.
What are the chords in: The Rolling Stones – As Tears Go By – Verse 3?
G, A, C, D, G, A, C, D, C, D, G, D/F#, Em, C, D
