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Related Music Theory Alchemy

“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.

“If You’re Wondering If I Want You To (I Want You To)” by Weezer has a chorus featuring a chord progression in the key of D major. The progression includes chords from both the major and minor scales while still primarily using diatonic chords from D major. The style of the progression is reminiscent of 90s alternative rock, and it finds similarity with other iconic chord progressions in rock music.

The “Like Clockwork” track by Queens of the Stone Age showcases a wide range of harmonic complexity. The track is in the key of F# minor and it is characterized by non-traditional chord progressions. From the range of chords used within the song, it’s clear that the song deviates from strict diatonic harmony, and freely borrows chords from parallel keys (modal mixture).

“Hurt” is a song written and composed by Trent Reznor, best known for its version covered by Johnny Cash in C major. The song employs a commonly used pop/rock chord progression (vi- IV- I- V), that aids the conveyance of the theme of regret and redemption. The use of the minor vi chord (Am) as the starting point of the progression provides a very melancholy feel that aligns with the overall tone of regret in the lyrics. The progression then moves to a major IV (F), suggestive of a brief glimpse of hope or relief, before settling into the home key of C. The progression rounds off with a V chord (G), propelling the sequence back to the beginning again, giving a cyclic, repeating, and enduring feel to the music.

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.

Weezer – My Name Is Jonas – Chorus 2

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Chord Progression

C, Am, G, C, Am, G, C, Am, G, C, Am, G

Chord Progression Analysis

C Major (‘I’), A minor (‘vi’), G Major (‘V’)
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C Major (I) – A minor (vi) – G Major (V) – C Major (I) – A minor (vi) – G Major (V) – C Major (I) – A minor (vi) – G Major (V) – C Major (I) – A minor (vi) – G Major (V)
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Similar Chord Progressions

1. Green Day – “When I Come Around”:
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G Major (I) – D major (V) – E minor (vi) – C Major (IV)
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2. Oasis – “Wonderwall”:
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C Major (I) – E minor (vi) – G Major (V) – D Major (IV)
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3. The Cranberries – “Zombie”:
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E minor (i) – C Major (III) – G Major (VI) – D Major (VII)
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4. Red Hot Chili Peppers – “Under the Bridge”:
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D Major (IV) – A Major (I) – B minor (ii) – G Major (V)
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Although these songs have different variations, the underlying theme of using simple major and minor chords to create memorable and emotionally rich progressions remains the same.

Musical Analysis

The chord progression in the chorus of “My Name Is Jonas” follows a simple I-vi-V pattern, with the C Major chord providing a solid tonal center. The movement from the C Major chord to the A minor chord introduces some drama and a touch of melancholy, emphasizing the emotional lyrics of the song. Finally, the G Major chord offers a sense of resolution and forms a strong cadence back to the C Major chord. This progression gives the song an overall feel of stability and provides the listener with a memorable and easily digestible hook.

Overall Analysis

“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.

Style Analysis

This type of chord progression is characteristic of 90’s alternative rock music and often found in indie genres as well. The simplicity and accessible nature of this progression make it a popular choice for songwriters in these genres. Though it’s a commonly used progression, Weezer manages to make it their own by combining it with distinctive guitar riffs, expressive melodies, and evocative lyrics.

Chords in the Chorus 2 section of My Name Is Jonas by Weezer are:

C, Am, G, C, Am, G, C, Am, G, C, Am, G