Music Theory Alchemy

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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.

The chord progression in the chorus of “Are We Still Friends” by Tyler, The Creator is a relatively simple yet effective progression that contains some characteristic elements of R&B and soul music. It includes a mixture of major and minor chords and a predominant use of dominant 7 chords (in this case, E7) to create a sense of tension and resolve within the progression. This progression is simple enough that it allows for the melody and lyrics to shine while still providing harmonic interest.

“The Rip” by Portishead is a classic example of the Trip-hop genre. It features simple, yet effective harmonic progressions that offer a melancholic tone which is widely utilized in this genre. The distinctiveness of this particular chord progression lies on its subtle shifting between minor and major tonalities, as well as its use of borrowed chords.

Verse 1

“Penny Lane” by The Beatles is a pop rock song released in 1967. Musically, the track displays characteristics of the “Baroque pop” style combine with psychedelic pop. The composition is multifaceted with complex chord progressions inspired by classical music, as well as elements of the British music hall style, specifically brass band influences throughout.

The chord progression in the verse of Tyler, The Creator’s “Earfquake” is primarily based on a simple alternation between two chords, Bbmaj7 and Am7, with a brief excursion to Gm7 before returning to Am7. The simplicity and repetition of the progression creates a feeling of comfort and stability, while the use of major 7th and minor 7th chords adds a touch of sophistication and smoothness. The progression doesn’t follow a traditional functional harmony, but it effectively supports the melody and the overall vibe of the song.

Tyler, The Creator – See You Again – Verse 1

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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

The verse contains a rich sound due to the use of major and minor seventh chords. The use of borrowed chords and chromaticism highlights Tyler, The Creator’s inclination towards both jazz harmonies and pop songwriting. The use of the chromatic Fmaj7 chord often leaves the listener waiting for a resolution, and the return to the tonic F#maj7 provides a sense of relief.

Similar Chord Progressions

Musical Analysis

Tyler, The Creator is known for taking musical influences from various genres and blending them together. The jazz-influenced harmonies in “See You Again” are an example of Tyler’s eclecticism. This particular chord progression showcases a distinct pop structure that leans into the harmonic unpredictability of jazz, providing a unique and engaging listening experience.

Overall Analysis

The chord progression in Tyler, The Creator’s “See You Again” can be characterized as a mixture of jazz harmonies and pop sensibilities. The verse progression features major and minor seventh chords, a few borrowed chords, and a prominent chromatic movement.

Chord progression analysis (including borrowed chords)
1. F#maj7 (I)
2. F#maj7/B (I6)
3. Fmaj7 (bImaj7 – borrowed chord)
4. G#m7 (iii7)
5. D7#5 (VI7#5 – borrowed chord)
6. F#maj7 (I)
7. F#maj7/B (I6)
8. Fmaj7 (bImaj7 – borrowed chord)
9. G#m7 (iii7)
10. D7#5 (VI7#5 – borrowed chord)

The chord progression starts with the tonic F#maj7 and moves through a first inversion of the same chord (F#maj7/B) before introducing borrowed chords (Fmaj7 and D7#5) from the parallel minor key, creating tension and color. The G#m7 is a diatonic iii7 chord, adding to the jazzy feel of the song.

Style Analysis

1. “I’ll Be Seeing You” by Billie Holiday
(Verse only)
– Fmaj7 (I)
– Gm7 (ii7)
– Gm7/C (ii7/IV)
– Am7 (iii7)
– Am7/D (iii7/VI)
– Dm7 (vi7)
– Dm7/G (vi7/ii)
– Gm7 (ii7)
– Gm7/C (ii7/IV)
– C7 (V7)
– Fmaj7 (I)

2. “Misty” by Erroll Garner (Verse only)
– Cmaj7 (I)
– Cmaj7/B (I6)
– Am7 (vi7)
– Am7/G (vi7/IV)
– Dm7 (ii7)
– Dm7/C (ii7/V)
– G7 (V7)
– Cmaj7 (I)

These examples capture some elements of Tyler, The Creator’s chord progression but vary in specific details. In both examples, the use of predominant seventh chords, chromaticism and borrowed chords can be observed, similarly highlighting the influences of jazz harmonies with pop sensibilities.

Chords in the Verse 1 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