Music Theory Alchemy

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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 outro chord progression of “Are We Still Friends” by Tyler, The Creator has an interesting and somewhat unconventional structure. It’s composed of four chords and follows a pattern that showcases chromatic motion, a key element often found in the music of Tyler, The Creator. The vamp is harmonically ambiguous, relying on the dynamic interplay between the chords to create tension and resolution.

“Someone to Love” by Queen is a rock song infused with gospel and blues influences. It’s written in the key of Ab major but the second verse you have provided seems to be in G major.

“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 given chord progression for Tyler, The Creator’s “Gone Gone” verse 2 is primarily in the key of Bb major with a mixture of chords from other modes. The progression displays a combination of diatonic and borrowed chords, exhibiting the stylistic blending commonly found in modern music such as jazz, R&B, and hip-hop.

Tyler, The Creator – Are We Still Friends – Verse 2

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Chord Progression

E, E7, A, Am, E, E7, A, Am

Chord Progression Analysis

E Major (I) – E Dominant 7 (I7) – A Major (IV) – A Minor (iv) – E Major (I) – E Dominant 7 (I7) – A Major (IV) – A Minor (iv)

Borrowed Chord:
`A Minor (iv)`

Similar Chord Progressions

Although not identical, a similar chord progression with borrowed chords can be found in the song “Something” by The Beatles. The progression in this song also starts on a major chord (C), moves to dominant 7 chord (C7), goes to the subdominant (F), then introduces a borrowed chord (Fm) from the parallel minor key.

Chord Progression in “Something” by The Beatles:
C Major (I) – C Dominant 7 (I7) – F Major (IV) – F Minor (iv)

In both cases, the use of borrowed chords and dominant 7 chords adds an emotional depth and richness to the harmony, making the progressions memorable and distinctive.

Musical Analysis

The progression starts with an E major chord (I), which sets a strong tonic center. It then adds an extra note to create an E dominant 7 chord (I7), creating tension and anticipation by shifting the mood slightly. The tension is then released as the progression moves to the A major chord (IV), the subdominant chord in the key of E major. The progression introduces the borrowed chord, A minor (iv), which is borrowed from the parallel minor key, E minor. This chord creates a sense of surprise and melancholy due to the unexpected appearance of a minor chord in a major key.

This movement is then repeated for a total of two times, further solidifying the emotional contrast and familiarity of the progression for the listener. The choice to repeat the progression serves to reinforce the distinct harmony and provide an easily memorable pattern for the listener.

Overall Analysis

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.

Style Analysis

Tyler, The Creator is known for his eclectic and innovative style that blends a variety of genres such as hip-hop, R&B, funk, and soul. In “Are We Still Friends,” the use of the borrowed chord adds a sense of emotional depth and surprise, which is characteristic of Tyler’s signature style. The progression provides a lush harmonic foundation for the song’s introspective lyrics, which touch on themes of lost friendships and nostalgia.

Chords in the Verse 2 section of Are We Still Friends by Tyler, The Creator are:

E, E7, A, Am, E, E7, A, Am