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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.

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.

The outro of “Kashmir” by Led Zeppelin features a simple alternating chord progression between G major and A major, which creates tension by avoiding a resolution to the tonic or dominant chords. This makes the progression sound unstable, yet well defined as it repeats. The recurring ascending motion creates a sense of lift throughout the outro, while the lack of a true resolution maintains a feeling of unease. This progression is notable for its simplicity, as well as how it invokes a modal sound that is characteristic of the mixolydian mode often used in rock music.

This chord progression from Radiohead’s “You And Whose Army” is in the key of C# minor, and the chords are predominantly composed of diatonic chords from the C# natural minor scale with some borrowed chords from the parallel major scale. The progression follows a looped pattern, creating a hypnotic and catchy quality which is characteristic of Radiohead’s music.

“Hurt”, written by Nine Inch Nails, exudes melancholy and despair through a slow progression that weaves intricate melodies between the chords. The tonality is primarily in B minor, but introduces D, E, A, and G chords throughout, indicating some mode mixture or borrowed chord use.

Weezer – The Good Life – Outro

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Chord Progression

Em, Am, D

Chord Progression Analysis

E minor (i) – A minor (iv) – D major (VII)

“`Borrowed Chord: None. All chords belong to the E natural minor scale.“`

Similar Chord Progressions

1. Radiohead – “Karma Police” (Outro)
A minor (i) – E minor (v) – D major (VII)

2. Nirvana – “Come As You Are” (Verse)
E minor (i) – G major (III) – D major (VII) – A major (VI)

3. Smashing Pumpkins – 1979 (Outro)
E minor (i) – D major (VII) – G major (III) – A major (VI)

In conclusion, the chord progression in the outro of Weezer’s “The Good Life” is simple yet evocative, and it’s characteristic of the alternative rock and power-pop musical styles of the 1990s. The progression, alongside similar ones from other music artists of the time, showcases specific stylistic qualities and reflects the introspective nature of the genre.

Musical Analysis

The chord progression in the outro of “The Good Life” by Weezer features movement by 4ths and 5ths, which is a common harmonic device in Western music. The progression starts on the tonic chord (Em) and then moves to the subdominant chord (Am) before reaching the subtonic chord (D major). This progression creates a reflective and melancholic atmosphere that is characteristic of alternative rock and power-pop music of the 90s.

Overall Analysis

The chord progression “[‘Em’, ‘Am’, ‘D’]” from the outro of Weezer’s “The Good Life” is a simple, yet effective progression in the key of E minor. It demonstrates a melancholic feel common to alternative rock and power-pop music genres of the 1990s. The chords in this progression are borrowed from the E natural minor scale.

Style Analysis

Weezer’s “The Good Life” is a prime example of mid-90s alternative rock and power-pop. The chord progression and overall harmonic texture contribute to the song’s introspective and emotional feel. This is quite characteristic of Weezer’s songwriting during this period, especially on their 1996 album “Pinkerton,” from which “The Good Life” was released as a single.

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

Em, Am, D