The use of the same chords and scales in pop music can be attributed to a variety of factors. The first and most significant factor is the fact that pop music is designed to be easily accessible and enjoyable to a wide audience. This is why pop music often follows a familiar structure and utilizes familiar chords and scales.
Another factor that contributes to the use of the same chords and scales in pop music is the fact that many pop songs are written by professional songwriters who are seeking to create a hit song. These songwriters often follow a formulaic approach to songwriting, which includes the use of familiar chords and scales that have been proven to be successful in the past.
Furthermore, the use of the same chords and scales in pop music can also be attributed to the fact that many pop songs are produced using digital audio workstations (DAWs), which come with a variety of pre-made loops and samples. These pre-made loops and samples often utilize familiar chords and scales, which makes it easier for producers to create pop songs quickly and efficiently.
Another reason for the use of the same chords and scales in pop music is the fact that many pop songs are written using a limited number of instruments. This is because pop songs are often designed to be performed live, and having a limited number of instruments makes it easier to recreate the song in a live setting.
In conclusion, the use of the same chords and scales in pop music can be attributed to a variety of factors, including the need to create easily accessible and enjoyable music for a wide audience, the use of formulaic approaches to songwriting, the use of pre-made loops and samples in DAWs, and the need to create songs that can be easily performed live. While there is certainly room for innovation and experimentation in pop music, the use of familiar chords and scales will likely continue to be a hallmark of the genre for the foreseeable future.
Source:
F. D. Richardson, “Why Do Pop Songs Sound the Same?,” The Atlantic, 11 May 2012, https://www.theatlantic.com/entertainment/archive/2012/05/why-do-pop-songs-sound-the-same/257538/.
