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The given chord progression of Weezer’s “California Kids” features a verse in the key of C major. The progression primarily uses diatonic chords, with a more unconventional movement that features the use of a C/B chord, or I chord with the bass note played in the seventh degree (leads to tonicization of the vi chord). The progression also features a common IV-V movement that is a characteristic of pop and rock music.

“My Name Is Jonas” by Weezer is an alternative rock song with a memorable guitar riff and chord progression. The song features a dynamic structure with a mix of different sections, including the refrain, which we will analyze here. Written in the key of G major, the chord progression presents a mixture of chords from both the major and the minor modes, giving it an interesting and varied sound.

“Today” by The Smashing Pumpkins is composed in the key of E minor. The song has quite a simple structure and harmony with a strong emphasis on the I-IV-V (D-G-A in E minor key) chord progression which is one of the most common patterns in popular music. This I-IV-V progression vests the song with its harmonic backbone and creates a strong, wide-open sonic canvas.

“Castles Made of Sand” by Jimi Hendrix is a psychedelic rock song that features a unique chord progression and distinctive guitar techniques that were ahead of its time. The song was released in 1967 on the album “Axis: Bold as Love” and showcases Hendrix’s innovative approach to guitar playing and songwriting.

“Strawberry Fields Forever” by The Beatles is written in the key of A Major and features 4/4 time signature. The chord progression for Chorus 3, which you’ve mentioned, is quite sophisticated and creative, exhibiting the Beatles’ aptitude for blending conventional pop harmony with more unexpected changes, drawn from their broad palette of influences and their willingness to experiment.

Weezer – California Kids – Chorus 3

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Chord Progression

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

Chord Progression Analysis

F Major (I) – G Major (V/ii) – A minor (ii) – E Major (V/vi) – F Major (I) – G Major (V/ii) – F Major (I) – F Major (I)
G Major (V/ii) – F Major (I) – G Major (V/ii) – A minor (ii) – E Major (V/vi) – F Major (I) – G Major (V/ii) – F Major (I)
F Major (I) – G Major (V/ii) – F Major (I) – G Major (V/ii) – F Major (I) – F Major (I) – G Major (V/ii) – F Major (I)

Wherein
“`E Major (V/vi)“` is a borrowed chord.

Similar Chord Progressions

1. Toto – Africa
Chord Progression: B Major (I) – G#m (vi) – C# minor (ii) – E Major (IV) – F# Major (V) – F# Major (V) – E Major (IV) – E Major (IV)
2. The Beatles – Let It Be
Chord Progression: C Major (I) – G Major (V) – A minor (vi) – F Major (IV) – C Major (I) – G Major (V) – F Major (IV) – C Major (I)

In both examples, the chord progressions follow a similar pattern as found in California Kids, featuring a predominant (ii or vi) and dominant (IV or V) chord sequence that helps create movement and tension in the song.

Musical Analysis

The progression starts and ends with the tonic, F Major, providing a sense of resolution and stability. The A minor (ii) chord acts as a predominant, creating movement towards the E Major chord, which is a secondary dominant (V/vi) that resolves to A minor in a deceptive manner instead of the expected D minor (vi). This creates a more interesting sound and grabs the listeners’ attention. The G Major chord, functioning as a V/ii creates tension, which helps propel the song forward.

Overall Analysis

The chord progression of the chorus of California Kids by Weezer displays a mixture of diatonic and borrowed chords in the key of F Major. The progression has a common pop-rock feel with some chromatic harmonic elements, bringing a more interesting and engaging effect to the listener.

Style Analysis

California Kids is a pop-rock song that features a mixture of diatonic and borrowed chords, giving it a unique yet familiar sound. The progression’s repetitiveness is common in pop music and can help make the song catchy and easy to remember. The E Major chord, a borrowed chord, adds a touch of chromaticism, which is often found in rock music, giving it an edge over a purely diatonic progression.

Chords in the Chorus 3 section of California Kids by Weezer are:

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