“You and I” by Jacob Collier is a complex piece of music that incorporates a variety of musical elements, including intricate jazz chords. These chords are a defining feature of the song, and they help to create its unique sound and atmosphere.
One of the jazz chords that is particularly prominent in “You and I” is the augmented chord. This chord is created by taking a major triad and raising the fifth note by a half step. For example, an augmented C chord would be spelled C-E-G#, rather than C-E-G. Augmented chords have a dissonant, tense quality that can add drama and tension to a piece of music, and they are often used in jazz to create a sense of unpredictability and surprise.
Another type of chord that is used extensively in “You and I” is the extended chord. Extended chords are chords that have additional notes added on to them beyond the basic triad. For example, a major seventh chord adds the seventh note of the major scale to the basic triad. In “You and I,” Jacob Collier uses a variety of extended chords, including major seventh, minor seventh, and dominant seventh chords. These chords have a more complex and sophisticated sound than basic triads, and they can add depth and richness to a song.
Another feature of the jazz chords in “You and I” is their use of altered notes. Altered notes are notes that have been raised or lowered from their usual position in the scale. For example, a dominant seventh chord with a flattened fifth (also known as a “tritone substitution”) has a lowered fifth note, which creates a tense, dissonant sound. Jacob Collier uses altered notes to create unexpected harmonies and add color and interest to the chords in “You and I.”
Overall, the jazz chords in “You and I” are a key element of the song’s unique sound and atmosphere. Jacob Collier’s use of augmented chords, extended chords, and altered notes creates a rich and complex harmonic landscape that is both unpredictable and satisfying. Whether you’re a fan of jazz music or simply appreciate well-crafted musical compositions, “You and I” is a fascinating piece of music that showcases the power and versatility of jazz chords.”
