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Related Music Theory Alchemy

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.

The given chord progression is found in Verse 2 of Tyler, The Creator’s song “Are We Still Friends.” The song is in the key of E major, and the progression features a mix of major, minor, and dominant seventh chords. The distinctive chromatic movement and the use of borrowed chords make for a memorable and unique progression. The combination of these elements results in a lush and emotionally charged progression which contributes greatly to the overall feel of the song.

The song “Gravity” by A Perfect Circle is principally in the key signature of C# minor, which is categorically a minor scale. The primary chords used throughout the song are C#m, F#, and G#m, with the addition of E occasionally. The overall chord progression is quite consistent, with alternative lose touch of the conventional nature of chord progressions in pop and rock music.

The song “A Day in the Life” by the Beatles is known for its unique and striking musical features. The chord progression in the interlude, in particular, represents an example of the Beatles’ innovative approach to harmonic structure and tonal movement. This section is essentially a sequence of dominant-seventh chords that each resolve to the note a fifth below, a common harmonic progression known as the circle of fifths. The interlude features a prominent orchestral crescendo and transition that are hallmarks of the Beatles’ experimental approach to the use of orchestral instruments in rock music.

“Undone – The Sweater Song” by Weezer features a simple yet effective chord progression in the interlude, using triadic chords and one altered chord (G6#9). The progression is in the key of G major and exhibits Weezer’s trademark alternative rock sound with a mix of pop sensibilities.

Tyler, The Creator – Are We Still Friends – Interlude

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Chord Progression

E, E7, A, Am

Chord Progression Analysis

“`
E Major (I) – E Dominant 7 (V7) – A Major (IV) – A minor (iv)
“`

Similar Chord Progressions

1. The Beatles – “Something” (1969)
Chord Progression:
“`
C Major (I) – C Major 7 (IMaj7) – C7 (V7/IV) – F Major (IV) – F minor (iv)
“`
2. Radiohead – “No Surprises” (1997)
Chord Progression:
“`
F Major (I) – G Major (II) – A minor (iii) – A flat Major (bVI) – G Major (II) – C Major (V)
“`

While these progressions are not exact replicas of the one used by Tyler, The Creator in “Are We Still Friends?”, they share similarities in their use of the dominant seventh chord, the subdominant major and minor chords, and their overall melodic and harmonic interest. This demonstrates how these harmonic techniques can be used across various genres and styles to create compelling chord progressions that engage the listener’s ear.

Musical Analysis

The progression starts with the tonic chord, E Major, which establishes the key of the piece. The E Dominant 7 chord then introduces a tritone interval (between the major third and the minor seventh) that creates tension and propels the progression forward. The A Major chord is the subdominant chord, which is traditionally a point of resolution in a chord progression. However, Tyler ends the progression with an A minor chord, which is borrowed from the parallel minor key (E minor). This borrowed chord adds a sense of surprise and melodic interest to the progression, giving it a more introspective and wistful quality.

Overall Analysis

The chord progression in the interlude of “Are We Still Friends?” by Tyler, The Creator is a simple yet effective progression that moves from the tonic chord to a dominant seventh, followed by a subdominant chord, and finally a minor subdominant chord. The progression creates an interesting shift in tonality that is common in jazz and soul music, which are styles that Tyler is known to incorporate into his work.

Style Analysis

The use of the dominant 7th chord and the borrowed minor iv chord gives the progression a jazzy, soulful quality that is reminiscent of the chord progressions used in jazz standards and R&B classics. Tyler, The Creator is known for incorporating various genres and styles into his music, particularly elements of jazz, soul, and R&B. This progression is an example of how he uses these harmonic techniques to create unique and emotionally charged moments in his songs.

Chords in the Interlude section of Are We Still Friends by Tyler, The Creator are:

E, E7, A, Am