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Related Music Theory Alchemy

The given chord progression is from the chorus of “Earfquake” by Tyler, The Creator, a contemporary hip-hop and neo-soul artist. The progression features a smooth and mellow tonality, characterized by the use of 7th chords. The chord progression is in the key of Bb Major and showcases the use of mostly diatonic chords with a repetition that contributes to the song’s catchy nature.

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.

Verse 2 of Grizzly Bear’s “Yet Again” presents a straightforward harmonic progression that is common in pop and indie rock music. This series of chords is mainly built around the key of A minor, and uses diatonic chords (those that naturally occur within the key) of this key. The recurring sequence (Am, G, C, F, F, Em, C, Dm) indicates a strong sense of familiarity and predictability, characteristic of many pop/rock anthologies.

“Rocket Man” by Elton John, released in 1972, is a melodic and harmonically sophisticated example of his pop/rock style. The piece is in the key of G, and the chord progression of Verse 2 introduces some harmonies that exploit john’s expertise in using extended and altered chords, which lend colorfulness and a feel of departure and return. The use of slash chords like G/B and D/F# creates a descending bass line that is very characteristic of pop and rock music, creating a sense of melodic movement within the chords themselves. Verse 2 is navigated skillfully between simplistic and complex harmonies.

“Rocky Raccoon” by The Beatles incorporates chords commonly associated with the genre of folk or country music. It is primarily built on a repetitive chord progression which consists of Am7, D7sus4, D7, G7, C, and C/B. There’s also a use of plenty of sevenths and suspensions to create a slightly jazzy feel. It’s also worth noting The Beatles’ penchant for chords that provide a mix of major and minor tonalities.

Tyler, The Creator – Earfquake – Verse 2

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Chord Progression

Bbmaj7, Am7, Gm7, Am7, D7, Bbmaj7, Am7, Gm7, Am7

Chord Progression Analysis

Bb major 7 (I), A minor 7 (ii/bIII), G minor 7 (vi), A minor 7 (ii/bIII), D7 (V7/III), Bb major 7 (I), A minor 7 (ii/bIII), G minor 7 (vi), A minor 7 (ii/bIII)

Borrowed Chord: `A minor 7 (ii/bIII)`

Similar Chord Progressions

1. Logic – “Man I Is”
Chord Progression: Ebmaj7 (I), Dm7 (VIm7), Gm7 (ii), C7 (V), Fm7 (vi), Bb7 (V/IV), Am7 (ii/bIII), Abmaj7 (IV)
`Borrowed Chord: Am7 (ii/bIII)`

2. D’Angelo – “Really Love”
Chord Progression: Bbmaj7 (I), Em7 (ii/bV), Am7 (ii/bIII), Gm7 (vi), Em7 (ii/bV), A7 (V/bIII), Dm7 (iii)
`Borrowed Chords: Em7 (ii/bV) and A7 (V/bIII)`

These songs, like “Earfquake,” feature a mix of diatonic and borrowed chords in their progressions, resulting in a similar fusion of styles and nuanced musicality.

Musical Analysis

Tyler, The Creator employs a dynamic chord progression that starts with the tonic, Bbmaj7, before moving to the borrowed Am7. This moves the progression momentarily to the G minor mode. The switch between the relative major and minor keys creates a unique melodic tension. The chords also progress through the circle of fifths with Gm7, Am7, and D7, which adds to the jazz-like style of the piece. This progression resolves back to the tonic, Bbmaj7, before repeating.

Overall Analysis

The verse 2 chord progression in Tyler, The Creator’s “Earfquake” is a mixture of diatonic and non-diatonic chords. The progression mainly features chords from the Bb Major key, with the D7 acting as a secondary dominant chord (V7/III). The progression has a smooth, jazzy feel that is typical of Tyler’s signature style.

Style Analysis

“Earfquake” showcases Tyler, The Creator’s distinct sonic signature which blends elements of hip-hop, R&B, jazz, and pop. The chord progression’s use of borrowed chords and smooth seventh chords adds a touch of sophistication, reminiscent of jazz and neo-soul music. This further emphasizes the emotional depth and complexity in Tyler’s music.

Chords in the Verse 2 section of Earfquake by Tyler, The Creator are:

Bbmaj7, Am7, Gm7, Am7, D7, Bbmaj7, Am7, Gm7, Am7