APT. - ROSÉ, Bruno Mars Chord Analysis

Summary

In this video, the presenter breaks down the chord progression of the hit song 'Super' by Ros and Bruno Mars. The analysis focuses on the song's key of C minor, highlighting the use of non-diatonic chords, such as C major, F major, and G major, which provide an interesting harmonic contrast. The video delves into the song's structure, from the verses to the chorus and bridge, exploring how modal interchange and chord shifts enhance the emotional impact. The presenter also emphasizes how these chord changes create a fresh and dynamic feel throughout the song.

Takeaways

• 😀 The song 'Super' by Ros and Bruno Mars is in the key of C minor, with some interesting chord choices that stray from the typical diatonic structure.
• 😀 The chord progression in the verse starts with C minor and moves to B flat, then returns to C minor, creating a simple, repetitive structure.
• 😀 Some non-diatonic chords, like C major, F major, and G major, are used in the song, particularly in the bridge, to create harmonic tension and release.
• 😀 The song incorporates modal interchange, borrowing chords from the parallel major key (C major) to add brightness and freshness, especially in the bridge.
• 😀 The use of G major in the bridge is an example of borrowing from the C major key, as G major does not naturally occur in C minor.
• 😀 The song makes use of a relative major relationship, where C minor is treated as related to E flat major, allowing for interchangeable chords between the two keys.
• 😀 The second chord progression in the song introduces common chords from major keys, creating a smoother, brighter sound before returning to C minor.
• 😀 The bridge features a major shift in tonality with the progression C minor → B flat → E flat → C major, giving the song a dramatic and fresh feel.
• 😀 Modal interchange is highlighted as a significant technique, allowing for an exploration of both minor and major sounds within the same piece of music.
• 😀 The song's use of major chords, such as C major and F major, adds emotional depth and contrast to the otherwise minor-centric harmonic landscape of C minor.

Q & A

What is the key of the song 'Uper' by Ros and Bruno Mars?

The key of the song is C minor, which gives it a darker, more emotional tone typical of minor keys.

What are the common chords used in most pop songs in the key of C minor?

In C minor, the typical diatonic chords are C minor (i), D diminished (ii°), E flat major (III), F minor (iv), G minor (v), A flat major (VI), and B flat major (VII).

How does the song make use of non-diatonic chords?

The song uses non-diatonic major chords like C major, F major, and G major, which are borrowed from the parallel major key of C major. These major chords are mainly used in the bridge to create contrast.

What is modal interchange, and how is it applied in this song?

Modal interchange is the technique of borrowing chords from a parallel key, in this case, borrowing major chords (C major, G major, F major) from the C major scale while the song is in C minor. This creates a shift in mood and energy.

How does the song's harmonic structure change from verse to chorus?

In the verses, the song follows a simple progression of C minor to B flat and back to C minor. In the chorus, it returns to the same progression, maintaining consistency and reinforcing the song's emotional theme.

What is the role of the G major chord in the bridge?

The G major chord in the bridge is borrowed from the C major scale, and its use marks a significant harmonic shift. It creates a surprising and uplifting moment compared to the song's minor tonality.

What is the significance of the C major chord in the bridge?

The C major chord in the bridge acts as a 'major I' chord, which contrasts with the C minor tonality of the rest of the song. This creates a sense of resolution and freshness before returning to the minor key.

How does the song maintain interest through its chord progressions?

The song maintains interest by alternating between predictable diatonic progressions and more surprising modal shifts, particularly in the bridge where non-diatonic major chords are introduced.

How does the modal interchange affect the song’s emotional impact?

The modal interchange introduces brightness and emotional lift by temporarily shifting from the minor tonality to major chords. This creates a moment of contrast and excitement, before the song returns to the original minor mood.

What happens in the bridge’s second chord progression, and how does it evolve?

In the bridge's second chord progression, the sequence goes C minor → B flat → E flat → C major. This progression introduces major chords, including the surprising C major, before transitioning back to the minor mode with C minor.