Ethan Teaches You Music Podcast The saddest chord progression ever
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May 1, 2025 Dive into the heart-wrenching world of music as the podcast unpacks a poignant chord progression from Kalinikov's Symphony No. 1. Discover how this melancholic harmony resonates through timeless hits by The Beatles and Willie Nelson. The discussion reveals the emotional weight of these chords and their power to convey sadness in music. Get ready for a soulful exploration of how harmony connects us to our feelings across generations!
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Saddest Chord Progression Explained
- The progression C minor, F7, Ab minor, Eb in Eb major mixes modes creating deep sadness.
- The F7 acts like F9 and Ab minor becomes a spooky minor major 7, enhancing heartbreak.
Familiarity in Beatles' Hit
- The Beatles' "In My Life" uses the same chord progression in a different key.
- Ethan recognized the sound from Kalinikov's symphony after some effort.
Willie Nelson's Sad Chord Use
- Willie Nelson's "I'd Have to Be Crazy" uses this progression twice in different ways.
- Ethan's wife felt the music was unbearably sad, beyond the song's lyrics.