The Rolling Stones – Heartbreaker – Verse
Heartbreaker < All Analyses
Chord Progression
[‘Em7’, ‘Am7’, ‘Em7’, ‘Em7’, ‘Am7’, ‘Em7’]
Chord Progression Analysis
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Em7 (‘i7’),
Am7 (‘iv7’),
Em7 (‘i7’),
Em7 (‘i7’),
Am7 (‘iv7’),
Em7 (‘i7’),
E (‘I’),
G (‘bIII’),
C (‘bVI’),
E (‘I’),
E (‘I’),
G (‘bIII’),
C (‘bVI’),
E (‘I’),
E (‘I’),
G (‘bIII’),
C (‘bVI’),
E (‘I’).
“`
Borrowed Chords:
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G (‘bIII’), C (‘bVI’)
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Similar Chord Progressions
The Em- Am progression of the verse is common in many rock and pop songs. However, the chorus borrowing chords from the parallel major key is a technique known as modal interchange and has been used in various songs and genres. Some examples:
“Creep” by Radiohead
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Em (‘i’) – Cmaj (‘VIMaj’) – G (‘III’)- G (‘III’)
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“Hallelujah” by Leonard Cohen:
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Em (‘i’), G (‘III’), Em (‘i’), Em (‘i’)
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Both songs use a similar transition from the minor i to the major III, providing an unexpected lift to the music.
Musical Analysis
The verse of the song begins with an Em7 chord, which is the tonic or home chord in the key of E minor. This is followed by an Am7, which is the subdominant chord. The cycle of tonic-subdominant creates a sense of musical tension and resolution.
The introduction of the major E chord in the chorus is a surprising yet effective transition, providing a bright and uplifting contrast to the dark, moody verses. The G and C chords, which are borrowed from the parallel major key, serve to extend this uplifting feel.
The consistent use of seventh chords throughout the track also adds depth to the song and reinforces its bluesy, rock vibe.
Overall Analysis
“Heartbreaker” by The Rolling Stones is a classic rock song that utilizes a chord progression that is stereotypical of the genre. The verse and chorus unfold in the key of E minor, with the verse using primarily a cycle of Em7 and Am7. In terms of musical mood and expressivity, the progression conveys a melancholic yet energetic feeling, which is characteristic of the rock genre.
Style Analysis
The Rolling Stones frequently infused their rock sound with elements of the blues, and “Heartbreaker” is no exception. The blues influence is apparent in their use of seventh chords and the bIII and bVI borrowed chords which are common in blues music.
The call-and-response style between the lead guitar and vocals, as well as the use of a rhythmic, driving bassline, are also quintessential features of The Rolling Stones’ style.
What are the chords in: The Rolling Stones – Heartbreaker – Verse?
[‘Em7’, ‘Am7’, ‘Em7’, ‘Em7’, ‘Am7’, ‘Em7’]
