How The Weeknd’s “Blinding Lights” Takes Beethoven’s Ideas to #1
In this analysis, pop music theorist Ben Morss shows how The Weeknd’s “Blinding Lights” is built from four-note scale segments.
-
-
How D’Angelo Uses Funky Dominant Sevenths in “Sugah Daddy”
In this short analysis, we break down the source of D’Angelo’s funky sound, his impeccable use of dominant sevenths in spread voicings.
-
A Harmonic Analysis of Radiohead’s “Weird Fishes/Arpeggi”
Let’s revisit one of Radiohead’s most propulsive and intricately layered songs, to deconstruct all the elements at play and how they function.
-
When the Music Doesn’t Trust You
When film music becomes continuous wallpaper so aggressively it doesn’t even let the viewers think for themselves, everyone loses.
-
A Harmonic Analysis of Michael Jackson’s Protest Song “They Don’t Care About Us”
Through means of Dancehall rhythms, modal interchange, and ostinato, Michael Jackson gives us glimpses of Black American heritage in his protest song.
-
When Film Music Is a Mickey Mouse Operation
What exactly is “mickeymousing,” and how do we know whether it’s a good or bad addition to your musical score? Let’s find out.
-
3 Ways “The Office” Theme IS Michael Scott
The Office Theme music couldn’t be more indicative of Michael Scott’s character persona, it functions almost as a leitmotif for three reasons, here’s how.
-
When Truman Touches the Wall
We break down the small yet significant harmonic effect that makes the climactic scene in The Truman Show break down all of our emotional barriers.
-
Consonance Is Nice. Dissonance Is Delicious
A practical guide to using intervals to create a range of emotional effects, because despite what you’ve heard: dissonance is king.
-
How John Williams Implies Modality Within Diatonic Harmony in “Yoda’s Theme”
Learn how composer John Williams is able to transform the notes of his Yoda leitmotif into a colorful tapestry using themes of elevation, mystique, and uncertainty.
