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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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The given chord progression is from the song “Every Day Is Exactly The Same” by Nine Inch Nails. The overall structure of the song consists of verses, choruses, and a bridge, each with distinct chord progressions that contribute to the song’s moody, melancholic atmosphere. The song is mostly in the key of E minor, with some borrowed chords from the parallel major key.

“Weezer – Island In The Sun (Bridge)” is a relatively simple yet melodically impactful chord progression that utilizes a mixture of major and minor chords. The song is in the key of G major, and the bridge follows a (V – I) D-G progression initially, before moving to the IV (C) and ii (Am) chords. The harmonic rhythm of the bridge creates a sense of resolution and adds emotional depth to the song.

“Riptide” by Vance Joy is in the key of C major. The chord progression is a repeated sequence of Am, G, C and Fmaj7, with the Fmaj7 being a borrowed chord from the parallel minor, C minor. Given that the majority of the song follows this pattern, it’s simple yet effective, providing a catchy and persistent structure to the song.

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