Crafting iconic melodies often requires more than just catchy lyrics—it demands a deep understanding of musical structure. The Beatles had a knack for weaving magic into their songs, and their mastery of chords played a huge role in their success. These subtle yet brilliant techniques are what set their music apart.
At the heart of their genius was their ability to transform simple chord progressions into something truly unforgettable. They bent the rules, blended genres, and created a sound that felt both groundbreaking and approachable. Each progression carried a unique emotional weight, making their songs resonate across generations.
By exploring a few of their favorite chord tricks, we can uncover the secrets behind their signature sound. These techniques not only showcase their musical brilliance but also offer a glimpse into the creative spirit that revolutionized popular music forever.
The Chord Magic of “Something”
George Harrison’s song ‘Something’ is a perfect showcase of The Beatles’ chord mastery. The track uses four distinct chord transitions that help create its enchanting sound.
Each of these transitions adds a layer of harmonic depth, making the song’s progression feel smooth and emotional. The result is a timeless composition that still resonates today.
By mastering these chord tricks, you can enhance your songwriting, bringing sophistication and beauty to your own music—just like The Beatles did.
Chord Moves That Redefine “Something”
“Something” features a unique shift to the minor subdominant, adding a touch of melancholy. This subtle chord change deepens the emotional pull of the song, creating a reflective atmosphere.
The song also uses a chromatic climb, where the melody ascends in half steps. This progression builds anticipation and smoothly transitions between chords, keeping the listener engaged.
Finally, The Beatles incorporate an ascending-descending pattern and shift to the tonic major. This creates movement and brings a refreshing change in tonality, giving the song an unexpected harmonic twist.
Bringing The Beatles’ Chord Tricks Into Your Music
By applying these chord tricks, you can bring a bit of The Beatles’ magic to your songwriting. Start with the minor subdominant shift to tap into deeper emotions.
Next, try the chromatic climb to add anticipation and fluidity to your chord transitions. This will keep your listeners engaged and intrigued.
Don’t forget to experiment with the ascending-descending pattern and the tonic major shift. These moves will add movement and surprise to your music, just like the classics.
Learn the four chord tricks The Beatles used in their songs in the video below: