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Related Music Theory Alchemy

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.

The chord progression in the outro of Tyler, The Creator’s “See You Again” displays a mix of diatonic and borrowed chords within the key of F# major. This progression creates a smooth and somewhat jazzy feel in the music, with the inclusion of a few unexpected chords that add tension and propel the music forward.

“Eight Days A Week” by The Beatles, released in 1965, is renowned for its catchy melodic phrases, tight harmonies, and distinctive use of chords. The song is firmly rooted in the key of D major, but there is an interesting use of borrowed chords.

Verse 2

“Wish You Were Here” by Pink Floyd is a classic rock ballad from their 1975 album of the same name. The song features an introspective and expressive melody with a predominantly acoustic instrumentation. The chord progression for Verse 2 demonstrates a blend of diatonic and non-diatonic chords, with borrowed chords from parallel modes, which adds to the emotional depth of the piece.

The chord progression in Muse’s Hysteria (verse 2) is a fairly unique progression that revolves around a minor tonality with some hints of E7 acting as a secondary dominant. It seems to have an ambiguous key center, fluctuating between E minor and A minor. The progression is repeated, providing a sense of tension and familiarity throughout the verse.

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