Radiohead Paranoid Android Chords Guide

Radiohead's "Paranoid Android" is a hauntingly beautiful song that has captivated audiences for decades. Released in 1997 on the album "OK Computer," this epic track is known for its complex composition, featuring multiple sections and time signature changes. For musicians and music enthusiasts alike, understanding the chords and musical structure of "Paranoid Android" can be a fascinating and rewarding experience. In this guide, we will delve into the world of "Paranoid Android" chords, exploring the song's intricate musical landscape and providing a comprehensive breakdown of its chord progression.

Introduction to the Song Structure

“Paranoid Android” is divided into four distinct sections, each with its own unique character and chord progression. The song’s structure can be seen as a reflection of its themes, which explore the disjointedness and anxiety of modern life. To fully appreciate the song’s complexity, it’s essential to understand the chord progressions that underpin each section. We will begin by examining the chord shapes and progressions used in each part of the song, providing a detailed analysis of the musical elements that make “Paranoid Android” so compelling.

Section 1: Introduction and Verse

The song begins with a haunting guitar intro, featuring a simple yet effective chord progression. The chords used in this section are:

• G - G7 - C - C7

This progression sets the tone for the rest of the song, establishing a sense of tension and unease. The use of seventh chords adds a layer of complexity, giving the music a richer, more nuanced sound. As we progress through the verse, the chord progression remains relatively consistent, with the addition of some suspended chords to add texture and interest.

Section 2: Chorus and Bridge

The chorus features a more driving rhythm, with a chord progression that’s both catchy and complex. The chords used in this section are:

• Em - B7 - C - G

This progression creates a sense of momentum, propelling the song forward and adding to the overall sense of tension. The use of the B7 chord adds a touch of dissonance, which is later resolved when the progression returns to the C chord. The bridge features a similar progression, with the addition of some suspended chords to add interest and variety.

Section 3: Middle Section

The middle section of the song features a dramatic change in tempo and mood, with a chord progression that’s both beautiful and unsettling. The chords used in this section are:

This progression creates a sense of tension and release, with the Am and Em chords providing a sense of melancholy and introspection. The use of the F chord adds a touch of brightness, which is later tempered by the return to the G chord. This section is a great example of how Radiohead uses chord progressions to create a sense of drama and contrast.

Section 4: Outro

The outro features a reprise of the song’s intro, with a chord progression that’s both familiar and haunting. The chords used in this section are:

• G - G7 - C - C7

This progression creates a sense of closure, bringing the song full circle and providing a sense of resolution. The use of seventh chords adds a layer of complexity, giving the music a richer, more nuanced sound. As the song fades away, the listener is left with a sense of wonder and awe, haunted by the memories of the music they’ve just experienced.

Meta Description: Learn how to play Radiohead’s “Paranoid Android” with our comprehensive chord guide, featuring detailed analysis and instruction.