Music Theory Alchemy

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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 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.

“Iris” by Goo Goo Dolls is a song in the key of D Major, and uses a very common pop/rock chord progression. The sheer repetition of the progression throughout the verse establishes a solid harmonic background upon which the melody can freely roam. Chords include the primary triads (I, IV, V) which are D, G, A, minor variations of the secondary triads (ii, iii, vi), which are Em, F#m, Bm.

“Across The Universe” by The Beatles, written mostly by John Lennon, is known for its rich and complex harmonic structures that added new dimensions to pop music. The song is predominately in the key of D major, with occasional borrowings from the parallel minor (D minor) and the closely-related key of B minor. The verse 1 progression – D, Bm, F#m, Em7, A, A7, D, Bm, F#m, Em7, Gm – creates an affectingly melancholic mood through its mix of major, minor and borrowed chords, producing a unique ambience that evokes a sense of cosmic contemplation, matching with the philosophical lyrics of the song.

“Strawberry Fields Forever” by The Beatles is a psychedelic rock song often regarded as one of their finest works. It’s innovative from both a melodic and harmonic perspective, using complex chord structures, chromatic touches, and key changes. The song is primarily in the key of E major.

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