Tyler, The Creator – Are We Still Friends – Chorus
Are We Still Friends < All Analyses
Chord Progression
E, E7, A, Am
Chord Progression Analysis
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– E Major (I)
– E7 (I7)
– A Major (IV)
– A minor (iv)
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E7 is a borrowed chord from the E Mixolydian mode.
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Similar Chord Progressions
1. The Beatles – “Let It Be”
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– C Major (I)
– C7 (I7)
– F Major (IV)
– F minor (iv)
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2. Marvin Gaye – “Heard It Through the Grapevine”
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– C# Major (I)
– C#7 (I7)
– F# Major (IV)
– F# minor (iv)
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3. Stevie Wonder – “Lately”
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– G Major (I)
– G7 (I7)
– C Major (IV)
– C minor (iv)
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These examples show that the I – I7 – IV – iv progression has been used by various artists across different genres and time periods, demonstrating its versatility and effectiveness.
Musical Analysis
The chord progression begins with the I chord, E Major, which establishes a strong sense of tonality. The I chord then transitions to the I7 chord, E7, which introduces a tritone and adds some dissonance. This tension is resolved as the progression moves to the IV chord, A Major, which is a perfect fourth away from E Major. Finally, the progression takes an unexpected turn by moving to the iv chord, A minor, which adds a sense of melancholy to the progression. This modal borrowing from the parallel minor key (E minor) contributes to the emotional depth of the piece.
Overall Analysis
The chord progression in the chorus of “Are We Still Friends” by Tyler, The Creator is a relatively simple yet effective progression that contains some characteristic elements of R&B and soul music. It includes a mixture of major and minor chords and a predominant use of dominant 7 chords (in this case, E7) to create a sense of tension and resolve within the progression. This progression is simple enough that it allows for the melody and lyrics to shine while still providing harmonic interest.
Style Analysis
Tyler, The Creator is known for incorporating elements of diverse musical styles in his work, and this is evident in “Are We Still Friends.” The use of I – I7 – IV – iv progression is characteristic of R&B, soul, and some pop music, especially prominent in the 1960s and 1970s. The mixture of major and minor chords and the inclusion of borrowed chords from other modes adds a sense of harmonic complexity to the otherwise simple progression.
What are the chords in: Tyler, The Creator – Are We Still Friends – Chorus?
E, E7, A, Am
