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Related Music Theory Alchemy

“Buddy Holly” by Weezer is a power-pop/alternative rock song from their debut studio album “Weezer” (also known as the Blue Album) released in 1994. The verse chord progression features diatonic chords from the A major key, along with some inversions and techniques borrowed from other musical styles such as blues and rock.

“Say It Ain’t So” by Weezer is an alternative rock song with a sense of melancholy in the verse and a catchy, anthemic chorus. The verse chords, which you provided, create a strong sense of movement and harmonic interest by using borrowed chords and a combination of diatonic and chromatic chord progressions.

“Today” by The Smashing Pumpkins, was released in 1993 on their second album, “Siamese Dream.” The song is classic-’90s alternative rock with its layered guitars and emotionally raw lyrics. key is “E minor.”

“Here Comes The Sun” by The Beatles uses a D Major scale. The song primarily comprises chords built on the tonic or root note (D), which lends a consistent, grounded feel. This reflects the lyrics’ mood—contentment, renewed optimism, and a sense of homecoming with the arrival of the sun.

“Wild Horses” by the Rolling Stones is a song in the key of G Major with a chord progression marked by the use of common chords and a few borrowed chords from other keys. The usage of minor and major chords conjures a variety of emotions synonymous with the mood of the song. The repetitive nature of the sequence creates a cyclical feeling that gives a strong sense of the song’s emotional journey.

Weezer – Buddy Holly – Verse 1

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Chord Progression

F#m, E/G#, A, A, F#m, E/G#, A, A

Chord Progression Analysis

F#m (vi), E/G# (V6), A (I), A (I), F#m (vi), E/G# (V6), A (I), A (I)

Similar Chord Progressions

1. The Beatles – “Let It Be”
Verse Chord Progression: C (I), G (V), Am (vi), F (IV), C (I), G (V), F (IV), C (I)

2. Oasis – “Wonderwall”
Verse Chord Progression: Em7 (ii7), G (IV), Dsus4 (Isus4), A7sus4 (Vsus4), Em7 (ii7), G (IV), Dsus4 (Isus4), A7sus4 (Vsus4)

3. Green Day – “Wake Me Up When September Ends”
Verse Chord Progression: G (I), D/F# (V6), Em (vi), G (I), C (IV), G (I), Am (ii), Am (ii)

These chord progressions showcase a similar use of the vi-V-I pattern in different contexts, as well as how artists utilize variations and added tones for added interest within their music.

Musical Analysis

The chord progression starts with the F# minor chord (vi), which sets a slightly more introspective tone, giving a sense of melancholy. This is followed by E/G#, which introduces the first inversion of an E major chord (V6), providing tension and a sense of anticipation. The progression resolves to the A major chord (I), which is repeated for an extra measure. This progression highlights the simple yet effective use of the vi-V-I pattern, which provides a sense of resolution while adding emotional depth through contrasting minor and major chords.

Overall Analysis

“Buddy Holly” is a song by Weezer with an upbeat, pop-rock feel. It exists in the key of A major and showcases a recurring chord progression in its verse consisting of F#m, E/G#, and A.

Style Analysis

The style of “Buddy Holly” can be classified as pop-rock with a blend of alternative rock and power pop. Its catchy melodies and relatable lyrics resonate with a wide range of audiences. The frequent use of the vi-V-I progression in its verses is characteristic of the pop-rock genre, as it provides a sense of familiarity that helps it stand out, while its guitar-driven sound further solidifies its rock appeal.

Chords in the Verse 1 section of Buddy Holly by Weezer are:

F#m, E/G#, A, A, F#m, E/G#, A, A