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Related Music Theory Alchemy

“Undone – The Sweater Song” by Weezer features a chorus with a simple, yet effective chord progression that combines the use of power chords with major chords. This combination gives the song its distinctive indie rock sound and contributes to its overall catchiness. The chorus is based on a four-chord progression with three different chords, where G5 power chord is followed by two major chords, C and D.

The given chord progression of Weezer’s “California Kids” features a verse in the key of C major. The progression primarily uses diatonic chords, with a more unconventional movement that features the use of a C/B chord, or I chord with the bass note played in the seventh degree (leads to tonicization of the vi chord). The progression also features a common IV-V movement that is a characteristic of pop and rock music.

The outro chord progression of “Are We Still Friends” by Tyler, The Creator has an interesting and somewhat unconventional structure. It’s composed of four chords and follows a pattern that showcases chromatic motion, a key element often found in the music of Tyler, The Creator. The vamp is harmonically ambiguous, relying on the dynamic interplay between the chords to create tension and resolution.

“The Less I Know The Better” by Tame Impala is in the key of E Major. The track has a unique blending of psych pop and synthrock, combining a funky bass line with Tame Impala’s signature synth timbre. Its harmonic structure is moderately complex and features some compelling chord progressions, with a few borrowed chords.

The chord progression in the outro of Tyler, The Creator’s “See You Again” displays a mix of diatonic and borrowed chords within the key of F# major. This progression creates a smooth and somewhat jazzy feel in the music, with the inclusion of a few unexpected chords that add tension and propel the music forward.

Weezer – Undone The Sweater Song – Outro

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Chord Progression

G5, C, D, C, Bb, G5, C, D, C, Bb, G5, C, D, C, Bb, G5, C, D, C

Chord Progression Analysis

– G5 (I5)
– C (IV)
– D (V)
– C (IV)
– B♭ (‘♭III’ – borrowed chord from G minor)
– G5-C-D-C-B♭ (repeat)

Similar Chord Progressions

1. Radiohead – “Creep”:
– G (I)
– B (III)
– C (IV)
– Cm (‘iv’ – borrowed chord from G minor)

2. The Beatles – “Let It Be”:
– C (I)
– G (V)
– A♭ (‘♭VI’ – borrowed chord from C minor)
– F (IV)

3. Oasis – “Wonderwall”:
– Em (ii)
– G (I)
– D (V)
– A (IV)
– C (‘♭VII’ – borrowed chord from E minor)

These three examples showcase a similar approach to using borrowed chords, providing a mix of diatonic and non-diatonic chords to create tension, color, and harmonic interest in their respective songs.

Musical Analysis

The progression starts with a G5 power chord (I5) that sets the tonal center of G major. This is followed by C major (IV) and D major (V), both diatonic chords in the key of G. The repetition of IV (C) and the use of a borrowed chord, B♭ major (♭III), from the parallel key of G minor add tension and variety to the progression. The outro alternates between these five chords, providing a sense of familiarity and unity, while still including enough variation to keep the listener engaged.

Overall Analysis

The chord progression in the outro of Weezer’s “Undone – The Sweater Song” follows a repeating pattern with a combination of major and power chords. The overall key of the progression is G major, and the chords follow a predictable pattern that is rooted in rock and alternative music styles. The chord progression uses borrowed chords from the parallel key of G minor, specifically the B♭ major chord.

Style Analysis

The usage of power chords (G5) is very common in both rock and alternative styles. Bands like Weezer frequently utilize this technique to achieve a fuller guitar sound with an increased emphasis on the sonic texture. This chord progression also highlights the influence of the I-IV-V progression, which is a common feature in popular music. The borrowed chord (♭III) adds a touch of modal mixture, which is also commonly found in various genres in popular music.

Chords in the Outro section of Undone The Sweater Song by Weezer are:

G5, C, D, C, Bb, G5, C, D, C, Bb, G5, C, D, C, Bb, G5, C, D, C