* [Music theory]? |
* MusicalTheory |
Typically, the three chords used are the chords on degrees I, IV and V of the scale: in the key of C, these would be the C, F and G chords. Sometimes the V7 chord is used instead of V, for greater tension.
Three-chord songs are easy for the listener to remember, which can make them effective in pop music. They are also easier to learn than other, more complicated songs. Among others, [Hank Williams]? and Bob Dylan have written large numbers of such songs. [Punk music]? very often features three-chord songs - sometimes called a 'three chord thrash' (cf. The Ramones).
Barbara Ann by the Beach Boys is a nice example of an effective three-chord song.
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