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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.

The chord progression in the outro of Weezer’s “Undone – The Sweater Song” follows a repeating pattern with a combination of major and power chords. The overall key of the progression is G major, and the chords follow a predictable pattern that is rooted in rock and alternative music styles. The chord progression uses borrowed chords from the parallel key of G minor, specifically the B♭ major chord.

“Hallelujah” by Jeff Buckley is a popular and iconic song that showcases Jeff Buckley’s unique vocal talent and emotional delivery. The song is in the key of C major and features a simple yet effective chord progression. The song’s memorable melody is accompanied by guitar, which uses arpeggiated fingerpicking. This adds to its musical depth and also creates dynamic rhythmic interest. The song builds in intensity as it progresses, and this, along with the powerful lyrics, contributes to the overall emotional impact of the piece.

The Beatles’ “Rocky Raccoon” incorporates a repeating sequence of predominantly seventh chords, displaying a mix of minor, dominant, and sustained chords within the and C Major/A minor keys. This diversity contributes to the song’s unique harmony, and given its context in a folk rock style, the progression exudes a rustic, storytelling personality.

“Paint It, Black” is in E minor key, with verse 3 having an exciting harmonic progression: Em – B – Em – B – Em – D – G – D – Em – Em – D – G – D – A – B. The chord progression suggests that the Rolling Stones utilise borrowed chords to impose an air of ambiguity that reflects the song’s lyrical themes. Additionally, this song is a blend of rock and raga rock style and exemplifies the Stones’ 1960s exploration into psychedelia and Eastern musical styles.

Weezer – California Kids – Verse 3

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Chord Progression

C, C/B, Am, G, F, G, C

Chord Progression Analysis

C (I) – C/B (I6) – Am (vi) – G (V) – F (IV) – G (V) – C (I)

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Borrowed Chords: None in this progression
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Similar Chord Progressions

1. The Beatles – “Let it Be”
Chord progression: C (I) – G (V) – Am (vi) – F (IV) – C (I) – G (V) – F (IV) – C (I)
2. Oasis – “Wonderwall”
Chord progression: C (IV, in the original key of G Major) – Em7 (vi) – G (I) – D (V)

Please note that the above similar chord progressions are not in the C major key but share a resemblance in terms of common chord movements and structure to the one in “California Kids.”

Musical Analysis

The progression starts with the tonic chord C (I) and transitions to C/B (I6), which features the same C major chord but with a B in the bass. This chromatic bass motion adds a smooth transition to the next chord, Am (vi). Following the vi chord, the piece progresses to G (V), leading to a strong IV – V – I movement with F (IV) and G (V) before resolving back to the tonic, C (I). This resolution provides a sense of closure while maintaining forward momentum through the verse.

Overall Analysis

The chord progression of the Verse 3 in the song “California Kids” by Weezer features a blend of diatonic and chromatic chords in the key of C major, exhibiting a classic pop-rock feel with some variations in the chord structure. The progression also showcases the use of chromatic bass motion to add harmonic interest.

Style Analysis

The chord progression used in “California Kids” is indicative of Weezer’s pop-rock and power pop style. The progression combines simple diatonic chords with chromatic bass motion and traditional harmonic cadences, making it catchy and memorable. The use of common pop-rock chord progressions (IV – V – I, I – vi) and the smooth bass motion allows for a strong melodic framework and accessible harmonies that resonate with listeners.

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

C, C/B, Am, G, F, G, C