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The chord progression in the chorus of Weezer’s “Buddy Holly” is in the key of A major and has a mix of diatonic and borrowed chords. Overall, it has a distinct and memorable pop-rock feel, with a strong hook and melodic quality. Through its use of secondary dominants, the progression creates tension and release, pushing the harmony forward in a compelling manner.

“My Name Is Jonas” by Weezer is a 90’s alternative rock song that features a catchy and memorable chord progression during its chorus. The harmony is simple and combines both major and minor chords, giving it a balanced and well-rounded sound. It is worth noting that this progression is fairly common in popular music, particularly in rock and indie genres.

“Roads” by Portishead is set in the key of Am, also known as A minor. In the verse, there is an interesting use of the flat major 7 (Fmaj7) chord. This chord is not typically found within the natural minor key but is considered a borrowed chord from the A major key. Thus, this use of said borrowed chord and its resolution to the E7 dominants gives the song a unique feel, contributing to its mesmerizing and emotive ambience. Portishead tends to blend the use of A minor and A Dorian modality in their music, especially apparent in this composition.

The chord progression in the verse of Radiohead’s “Nude” sets a contemplative and emotive atmosphere. It features a mix of diatonic and borrowed chords, which creates unexpected harmonic shifts that evoke feelings of melancholy. This distinctive harmonic language can be associated with the band’s signature moody sound and has been influential in the indie and alternative rock genres.

The chord progression in Verse 1 of “My Name Is Jonas” by Weezer is in the key of C Major. The progression is quite simple and common, but it includes an interesting borrowed chord to provide extra color. This can be described as a mix of pop and rock idioms.

Chord Progression Analysis (with full chord names and Roman numerals):

C Major (I) – G Major (V) – A minor (vi) – F Major (IV)

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Borrowed Chord: None in this progression
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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