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Related Music Theory Alchemy

The chorus of “The Good Life” by Weezer features a mixture of diatonic and non-diatonic chords, with a primary focus on the key of G major. The chord progression stands out as somewhat unconventional due to the inclusion of chromatic chords, which gives it an interesting character and emotion. Additionally, the repetition of certain chords emphasizes the harmonic structure and creates a sense of familiarity.

“Say It Ain’t So” by Weezer is a rock song, primarily falling within the alternative rock and power pop styles. The chord progression of Verse 1 is simple yet effective in creating a somber, introspective mood. It primarily utilizes diatonic chords of the C major key, with the E major chord borrowed from the parallel minor key (C minor).

Chord progression analysis with Roman numerals:
A minor (vi) – E major (V/vi) – F major (IV) – C major (I)

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Borrowed chord: E major (V/vi)
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“Somebody To Love” by Queen is a classic rock ballad in the key of G major, drawing heavily from influences of gospel music and blues progressions. Its bridge, aside from the characteristic gospel and rock elements, includes a modulating progression that is particularly interesting due to its use of borrowed chords, which adds contrast and emphasizes the emotive quality of the song.

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“Miss You” by The Rolling Stones is in the key of A minor. The main chord progression in the song is quite consistent — Am, Dm, Am, Am, Dm, Am, Am, Dm — with some variations in the bridge. The song’s chord progression is bluesy in nature, given the usage of minor chords and the parallel movement. In particular, the usage of E, the V chord in A Minor, gives a resolution back to the root chord (Am), which gives the song a sense of tension and release.

Nine Inch Nails’ “Closer” is a unique blend of industrial rock, electronica, and alternative styles that has propelled the song to prominence as one of the band’s most famous and frequently played tracks. The song is in the key of E major and features a recurring chord progression throughout its various sections.

Weezer – The Good Life – Bridge

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Chord Progression

Am, D, G, Em, Am, D, G, Em, Am, D

Chord Progression Analysis

1. A minor (vi)
2. D Major (V/IV)
3. G Major (I)
4. E minor (vi)
5. A minor (vi)
6. D Major (V/IV)
7. G Major (I)
8. E minor (vi)
9. A minor (vi)
10. D Major (V/IV)

Borrowed Chord:
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D Major (V/IV) – Borrowed from G Mixolydian mode
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Similar Chord Progressions

1. Radiohead – “Creep” (1993)
Chord Progression: [‘G’, ‘B’, ‘C’, ‘Cm’] = G Major (I), B Major (III), C Major (IV), C minor (iv)

2. Oasis – “Don’t Look Back in Anger” (1995)
Chord Progression: [‘C’, ‘G’, ‘Am’, ‘E’, ‘F’, ‘G’, ‘C’, ‘Am’, ‘G’] = C Major (I), G Major (V), A minor (vi), E Major (V/vi), F Major (IV), G Major (V), C Major (I), A minor (vi), G Major (V)

Musical Analysis

The chord progression starts with the vi chord (A minor), creating a feeling of tension, which is resolved by the following V/IV (D Major) chord. This creates a sense of propulsion towards the G Major (I) chord. The progression then repeats, providing a strong sense of forward momentum. By incorporating the D Major borrowed chord, Weezer adds a touch of chromaticism, which enriches the overall sound of the progression.

Overall Analysis

The given chord progression consists of five unique chords: Am, D, G, Em, and D repeated in a structured pattern. The progression is in the key of G major, with one borrowed chord. This chord progression is a good example of Weezer’s mix of rock and pop styles, displaying a strong use of diatonic harmony with a touch of chromaticism.

Style Analysis

The use of both diatonic and borrowed chords is common in Weezer’s music, reflecting their blend of alternative rock and power pop elements. These chords create a sense of catchiness and familiarity, which is a large part of their style. The balance between simple and complex harmonic elements is also a hallmark of Weezer’s sound.

Chords in the Bridge section of The Good Life by Weezer are:

Am, D, G, Em, Am, D, G, Em, Am, D