Tyler, The Creator – Earfquake – Bridge
Earfquake < All Analyses
Chord Progression
Bbmaj7, Am7, Gm7, Asus2, B7, Bbmaj7, Am7, B7, Bbmaj7, Gm7
Chord Progression Analysis
Bb Major 7 (IΔ7) – A minor 7 (vii7) – G minor 7 (vi7) – A sus2 (VII) – B7 (♯II7) – Bb Major 7 (IΔ7) – A minor 7 (vii7) – B7 (♯II7) – Bb Major 7 (IΔ7) – G minor 7 (vi7)
“`
Borrowed Chords: B7 (♯II7)
“`
Similar Chord Progressions
1. Stevie Wonder – “Overjoyed”
Chord Progression:
C Major 7 (IΔ7) – B minor 7 (vii7) – A minor 7 (vi7) – G Major 7 (VMaj7) – Ab7 (♭VI7) – F Major 7 (IVΔ7) – G sus2 (V) – A minor 7 (vi7)
2. Andy Shauf – “The Worst in You”
Chord Progression:
F Major 7 (IΔ7) – E minor 7 (vii7) – D minor 7 (iv7) – E sus2 (V) – Db7 (♭IV7) – F Major 7 (IΔ7) – E minor 7 (vii7) – Db7 (♭IV7) – Eb Major 7 (♭VΔ7)
Musical Analysis
The ‘Earfquake’ bridge starts with the tonic Bb Major 7 chords, then moves to A minor 7 chord as a borrowed chord from Bb Aeolian (natural minor) mode to create a smooth transition from the tonic towards the submediant (G minor 7) chord. Then, the bridge proceeds to the A sus2 chord which acts as a brief and gentle resolution, creating a relaxed and open feel in the progression.
The B7 chord, a borrowed chord in this context, adds tension and chromatic interest in this predominantly diatonic chord progression while providing an unexpected shift away from the Bb tonic. The B7 chord returns twice more, further reinforcing the sense of unease before resolving back to the tonic Bb Major 7 chord.
Overall Analysis
The chord progression appears to be in the key of Bb Major, and showcases various diatonic chords along with a few borrowed chords. This progression is characterized by a blend of smooth and rich harmony, primarily due to the use of 7th chords and suspensions. The introduction of the dominant B7 chord adds interest, making the progression more unpredictable and complex.
Style Analysis
Tyler, The Creator’s style is known for incorporating Neo-Soul, Jazz, Fusion, and RnB which are evident in this particular chord progression. The use of 7th chords and borrowed chords provide the harmonic richness associated with these genres, while the smooth transitions and unexpected shifts keep the listener engaged and surprised.
What are the chords in: Tyler, The Creator – Earfquake – Bridge?
Bbmaj7, Am7, Gm7, Asus2, B7, Bbmaj7, Am7, B7, Bbmaj7, Gm7
