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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 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.

The outro of Jeff Buckley’s “Hallelujah” features a chord progression in the key of C Major. It includes common chords from the key, as well as some borrowed chords from the parallel minor key (C minor), which adds a level of tension and emotion to the progression. The outro has a cyclical nature, with the chords leading smoothly back into the beginning and building a sense of conclusion.

“1979” by The Smashing Pumpkins is written in the A major key and showcases various examples of modal interchange, also known as borrowed chords. The song switches often between the major and minor modes, providing a dynamic interplay of moods. The outro particularly stands out due to its use of both major and maj7th chords, a somewhat unusual combination. Emaj7 adds color and complexity to the progression, as a borrowed chord from the E major scale.

The outro of Beck’s song “Morning” features a beautiful and interesting chord progression in the key of E major. This progression has a mix of diatonic and borrowed chords that creates an evocative sonority and dreamy atmosphere, fitting seamlessly with the rest of the song.

Tyler, The Creator – See You Again – Outro

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Chord Progression

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

Chord Progression Analysis

F#maj7 (IMaj7), F#maj7/B (IMaj7/5), G#m7 (IIm7), D7#5 (VI7♯5)

`The D7#5 chord is borrowed from the F# harmonic minor scale.`

Similar Chord Progressions

1. Stevie Wonder – “Isn’t She Lovely”
Chord Progression: Emaj7 (IMaj7), Bm7 (IVm7), Amaj7 (IVMaj7), F#m7 (IIm7), F#7#5 (II7♯5)
2. John Coltrane – “Giant Steps”
Chord Progression: BMaj7 (IMaj7), D7 (V7/III), GMaj7 (VMaj7), Bb7 (V7/VI), EbMaj7 (bIIIMaj7), Am7 (VIm7), D7 (V7/II), GMaj7 (IIMaj7), Bb7 (V7/VI), EbMaj7 (bIIIMaj7), F#7#5 (II7♯5), BMaj7 (IMaj7)
3. Shania Twain – You’re Still The One
Chord Progression: EMaj7 (IMaj7), F#m7 (IIm7), A (IV), A/B (IV/2), B7#5 (V7#5)

These songs have incorporated the use of 7th chords and/or borrowed chords, particularly the augmented 5th chords or other unexpected chords, creating a similar harmonic texture as in “See You Again.”

Musical Analysis

The progression begins with a stable F#maj7 chord, followed by the F#maj7/B, which is essentially functioning as a first inversion chord. This inversion creates a smooth bass line and a subtle sense of forward motion. The progression then moves to the G#m7 chord, a diatonic chord in the key of F# major that provides a smooth transition from the tonic. The most interesting aspect of this progression is the D7#5 chord, which is a borrowed chord from the F# harmonic minor scale. This chord not only adds tension and color to the music but also creates a strong pull back to the tonic, effectively allowing the progression to loop seamlessly.

Overall Analysis

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.

Style Analysis

Tyler, The Creator is known for his unique and often experimental approach to harmony within his music. The inclusion of the borrowed D7#5 chord in this progression showcases his distinctive choice of chords that are not traditionally used in pop music. The progression exhibits a jazzy feel; the use of 7th chords adds depth and gives the music a rich harmonic texture. Despite the unconventional chord choices, the progression still retains a strong sense of melodic movement and resolution throughout.

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

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