Borrowed chords

Definition

Borrowed chords are chords that are taken from a parallel key (either major or minor) and used in a piece of music that is primarily in a different key. This technique enriches the harmonic palette and creates unexpected colors and emotional contrasts within the progression. By incorporating these chords, composers and songwriters can evoke different moods or feelings, enhancing the expressiveness of their music.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Borrowed chords are often used to add tension and release in a harmonic progression, creating moments of surprise that engage listeners.
2. Common borrowed chords include the bVII (flat seven) and iv (minor four) in major keys, which can provide a darker contrast against the prevailing major tonality.
3. Songwriters frequently borrow chords from the parallel minor to create emotional depth, especially in popular music genres.
4. The use of borrowed chords can blur the boundaries between major and minor tonalities, offering new melodic possibilities and textures.
5. Understanding how to effectively use borrowed chords can significantly elevate the complexity and richness of your songwriting.

Review Questions

• How do borrowed chords enhance emotional expression in a song?
  • Borrowed chords enhance emotional expression by introducing unexpected harmonic shifts that create tension and release. For example, using a minor iv chord in a major key can evoke feelings of sadness or longing, contrasting with the overall brightness of the major tonality. This use of parallel keys allows songwriters to explore deeper emotional landscapes, making their music more relatable and impactful.
• What are some common examples of borrowed chords used in popular music, and how do they affect the overall sound?
  • Common examples of borrowed chords in popular music include using the bVII chord in place of the V chord or employing the iv chord in a major key. These borrowed chords introduce rich harmonic textures and can shift the mood dramatically within a song. For instance, many classic rock songs utilize these techniques to create a sense of yearning or nostalgia, enhancing listener engagement through emotional contrast.
• Evaluate the role of borrowed chords in expanding harmonic language within contemporary songwriting practices.
  • The role of borrowed chords in contemporary songwriting practices is pivotal for expanding harmonic language. By integrating borrowed chords, songwriters can move beyond conventional diatonic progressions, allowing for greater creativity and emotional nuance. This practice encourages innovation in musical storytelling, as it opens up new pathways for expressing complex feelings through harmony. Additionally, as genres continue to blend, the incorporation of borrowed chords becomes essential for crafting unique musical identities that resonate with diverse audiences.

Related terms

Modal Interchange: The practice of borrowing chords from parallel modes (like minor from major) to add variety and depth to harmonic progressions.

Diatonic Chords: Chords that are built strictly from the notes of a given scale without any alterations, often forming the basis of traditional harmony.

Tonicization: A process where a non-tonic chord is temporarily treated as the tonic, often leading to a borrowed chord to create a momentary shift in tonality.