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The chorus of “California Kids” by Weezer features an interesting mix of primarily diatonic chords, with some borrowed chords and chromaticism. The chord progression has a pop-rock feel, with uplifting major and minor chords, and the use of the E major chords adds tension and intrigue.

The intro of “My Name Is Jonas” by Weezer is a simple, yet effective chord progression in the key of C major. The progression starts on the tonic, moves to a first inversion of a G6 chord, followed by an A minor chord, and finally back to the first inversion of the G6 chord. The progression has a circular nature, which adds to the song’s catchiness and memorability.

Jimi Hendrix’s “Castles Made of Sand” is an interesting and unique composition with an innovative chord progression. The song is in the key of G major and is characterized by an engaging and complex harmonic structure that showcases Hendrix’s skill as a songwriter and performer. The chord progression, though relatively simple, creates a sense of depth and movement uncommon during that time period.

Radiohead’s “Fake Plastic Trees” is an alternative rock ballad from their 1995 album, “The Bends.” The moody and atmospheric track is characterized by its emotive vocal delivery, contrasting dynamics, rich arrangement, and engaging chord progression. This progression, in particular, features an interesting mixture of diatonic and borrowed chords that create a sense of tension and resolution throughout the piece.

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The piece, ‘1979’ by The Smashing Pumpkins follows an overarching structure with a mix of major and minor chords, what stand out are the rich extended chords, ‘Emaj7’ and ‘Amaj7’. The piece displays a balance between tonic chords and dominant chords, expressing a classic pop-rock style whilst frequent usage of maj7 chords adding a distinctive jazziness to the tune.

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Weezer – California Kids – Chorus 2

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Chord Progression

F, G, Am, E, E, F, G, F, F, G, F, G, Am, E, E, F, G, F

Chord Progression Analysis

The progression and overall style of “California Kids” is emblematic of power pop and pop-rock, which Weezer is known for. The inclusion of the V/vi (E major) borrowed chord adds emotional color and manages to balance familiarity with a slight sense of unpredictability.

Similar Chord Progressions

Musical Analysis

1. “Say It Ain’t So” by Weezer
As a Weezer song, “Say It Ain’t So” shares a similar style and progression logic, with the verse chords being:
C#m (i) – G# (V) – A (VI) – E (III)

2. “She Will Be Loved” by Maroon 5
The progression in the verse shares a similar rhythmic structure and circular feel, with the chords being:
Cm (i) – G (III) – A# (VI) – Fm (iv) – G# (V)

3. “Drive” by Incubus
This song also has a progression that maintains resolution and tension, with the verse chords being:
Em7 (ii7) – Dmaj9 (I9) – Asus4 (IV)

Overall Analysis

The chorus maintains a feeling of resolution and tension by alternating between the IV (F major) and V (G major) chords, while the vi (A minor) to V/vi (E major) progression provides a smooth transition back to the IV chord (F major).

In terms of borrowed chords, the E Major is a borrowed chord.
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E major (V/vi)
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Style Analysis

Chords in the Chorus 2 section of California Kids by Weezer are:

F, G, Am, E, E, F, G, F, F, G, F, G, Am, E, E, F, G, F