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The chorus of Weezer’s song “Say It Ain’t So” can be analyzed as a simple and memorable chord progression in the key of C major. The progression features a repeating pattern of four chords: Am, E, F, and C.

“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.

“Perfect Situation” by Weezer is a pop-rock song that follows a standard verse-chorus format, with a strong focus on melody and harmony. The song is in the key of G major, and the chord progression provided is for the second verse. It features a simple, yet effective progression that creates a sense of movement and tension before resolving back to the tonic chord. This gives the song a very engaging, classic pop/rock feel.

“Sorry Seems to Be The Hardest Word” is in the key of E minor and shifts to the relative major (G major) at various points, it demonstrates Elton John’s mastery of the line between major and minor keys. It’s a melancholic song with a moderate tempo. The use of both minor and major chords in Elton John’s progression signifies the tension and release in the song’s melody and lyrics.

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“Closer” by Nine Inch Nails utilizes a relatively simple chord structure, which allows the song to establish a pervasive atmosphere and direct the listener’s focus on the lyrics and melodies. This piece is in the key of C minor, and the chord progression is cyclical in nature, with Verse 2 consisting of the repetition of Cm7 chord throughout.

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Weezer – Say It Aint So – Verse 2

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Chord Progression

Am, E, F, C, Am, E, F, C, Am, E, F, C

Chord Progression Analysis

A minor (i) – E Major (V) – F Major (bVI) – C Major (III)

Similar Chord Progressions

1. “Creep” by Radiohead

G Major (I) – B Major (III) – C Major (IV) – C minor (iv)

2. “Zombie” by The Cranberries

E minor (i) – C Major (VI) – G Major (III) – D Major (VII)

Musical Analysis

The verse chord progression cycles through the pattern above three times. The first chord progression in the verse is a common i-V progression in a minor key, adding tension to the music. The F Major and C Major chords that follow add a bit of color and surprise, as they are borrowed chords from the parallel major (A Major) and the relative major (C Major), respectively, creating a chromatic, non-diatonic progression. These borrowed chords give a feeling of yearning and unresolved tension, which contributes to the melancholy feel of the verse.

Overall Analysis

“Say It Ain’t So” by Weezer is an alternative rock song with a sense of melancholy in the verse and a catchy, anthemic chorus. The verse chords, which you provided, create a strong sense of movement and harmonic interest by using borrowed chords and a combination of diatonic and chromatic chord progressions.

Style Analysis

As mentioned before, “Say It Ain’t So” is an alternative rock song that heavily features distorted guitars and powerful drumming. The combination of diatonic and non-diatonic chord progressions, along with the use of borrowed chords, contributes to the unique sound of the song and sets it apart from typical pop and rock songs. The melancholic tone of the verses contrasts with the more uplifting and anthemic choruses, creating a dynamic and engaging listening experience.

Chords in the Verse 2 section of Say It Aint So by Weezer are:

Am, E, F, C, Am, E, F, C, Am, E, F, C