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Related Music Theory Alchemy

The piece “See You Again,” written by Tyler, The Creator, features a harmonically rich and somewhat unexpected chord progression. It steps away from traditional diatonic harmony, and instead experiments with the use of borrowed chords, particularly through the incorporation of the F#(b5) chord. This results in a unique and distinctive sound to the piece, as it mixes a sense of tension and resolution through the progression.

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.

“Goodbye Yellow Brick Road,” written by Elton John and Bernie Taupin, is characterized by a lush, cinematic melody that encapsulates John’s knack for crafting pop ballad choruses. Its base key is D Major, showcasing a mix of diatonic, dominant seventh, and borrowed chords. Its diverse chord progression is reflective of Elton John’s diverse influences, which include pop, rock, blues, and classical music.

This is a beautiful chorus from “Rocket Man,” a song by Elton John. The overall vibe of the song is nostalgic and melancholy, largely due to the combination of key changes, chord progression, and Elton John’s vocal melody. The song appears to be in the key of G major.

“I Sat By The Ocean” by Queens of The Stone Age is written in E Major key.

Tyler, The Creator – See You Again – Chorus

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Chord Progression

F#maj7, F#maj7/B, Fmaj7, G#m7, D7#5, F#maj7, F#maj7/B, Fmaj7, G#m7, D7#5

Chord Progression Analysis

F#maj7 (Imaj7) – F#maj7/B (Imaj7/5) – Fmaj7 (bImaj7) – G#m7 (iiø7) – D7#5 (bVI7) – F#maj7 (Imaj7) – F#maj7/B (Imaj7/5) – Fmaj7 (bImaj7) – G#m7 (iiø7) – D7#5 (bVI7)

“` Borrowed Chord: Fmaj7 (bImaj7) “`

Similar Chord Progressions

1. Stevie Wonder – “Overjoyed”
Chord Progression: Cmaj7 (Imaj7) – C#dim7 (iio7) – Dm7 (ii7) – G13 (V13) – Cmaj9 (Imaj9) – Dm9 (ii9) – G13sus (V13sus) – G13 (V13)

2. D’Angelo – “Untitled (How Does It Feel)”
Chord Progression: Amaj7 (Imaj7) – C#m7 (iii7) – Bm7 (ii7) – E9 (V9)

Both of these examples feature rich harmonic textures, smooth voice leading, and chromatic movement, which are similar characteristics found in the chord progression of “See You Again.” Additionally, they share a neo-soul and contemporary R&B sound, making them appropriate comparisons.

Musical Analysis

In this progression, we begin with the F#maj7 (Imaj7) chord, which establishes the tonal center. The F#maj7/B is an inversion of the Imaj7 chord and serves to create a smooth bass movement.

The first borrowed chord is Fmaj7 (bImaj7) from the parallel minor key (F# minor). This chromatic movement adds an unexpected twist and some tension to the progression.

Moving to G#m7 (iiø7) represents a return to diatonic harmony. The following chord, D7#5 (bVI7, an altered dominant), functions as a secondary dominant to the Imaj7, adding tension that resolves to the starting F#maj7 chord.

The second half of the progression repeats the same sequence, solidifying the harmonic pattern and providing a satisfying sense of resolution by the end.

Overall Analysis

The chord progression in the chorus of Tyler, The Creator’s “See You Again” exhibits a combination of diatonic and chromatic movements, with the use of borrowed chords and altered dominants that create tension and release. The song is in the key of F# major.

Style Analysis

Tyler, The Creator’s “See You Again” features a neo-soul and contemporary R&B sound, with lush voicings, smooth voice leading, and chromatic movement. The use of borrowed chords and altered dominants is a common aspect of jazz-influenced R&B and neo-soul music, which often experiment with unexpected harmonic choices.

Chords in the Chorus section of See You Again by Tyler, The Creator are:

F#maj7, F#maj7/B, Fmaj7, G#m7, D7#5, F#maj7, F#maj7/B, Fmaj7, G#m7, D7#5