Weezer – My Name Is Jonas – Refrain
My Name Is Jonas < All Analyses
Chord Progression
Em, F, G, Em, F, G, Em, F, G, Em, F, G
Chord Progression Analysis
E minor (vi), F major (♭VII), G major (I),
E minor (vi), F major (♭VII), G major (I),
E minor (vi), F major (♭VII), G major (I),
E minor (vi), F major (♭VII), G major (I)
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Borrowed Chord: F major (♭VII)
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Similar Chord Progressions
1. Nirvana – “Lithium”
Chord progression: E major (I), G major (♭III), C major (♭VI), A major (IV)
2. Radiohead – “Creep”
Chord progression: G major (I), B major (III), C major (IV), C minor (iv)
All these songs feature the use of borrowed chords and modal interchange, which is a defining characteristic of alternative rock harmony.
Musical Analysis
The refrain of “My Name Is Jonas” features a repeated three-chord progression of Em – F – G. The use of the borrowed F major chord, which is the ♭VII derived from G Mixolydian mode, gives the progression an interesting twist. By utilizing a mixture of chords from both the major and minor modes, Weezer creates a musical section that possesses tension and release through its stepwise motion and the chords’ interactions.
Overall Analysis
“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.
Style Analysis
Stylistically, “My Name Is Jonas” is an excellent example of the early-to-mid-’90s alternative rock sound. It features a mix of distorted and clean guitars, dynamic shifts within the song structure, and layered vocal harmonies. The use of borrowed chords and modal interchange is a prevalent technique in alternative rock, as it allows for a more interesting harmony that engages the listener.
What are the chords in: Weezer – My Name Is Jonas – Refrain?
Em, F, G, Em, F, G, Em, F, G, Em, F, G
