This chord analysis of Ikimonogakari’s “Arigatou” explores pivot chords in modulation. A pivot chord belongs to both the original and destination keys, acting like a transfer station to connect them smoothly. Using Bm7(♭5) and Am7 from the middle of the chorus, we examine their relationship to ii–V progressions and how they can be used in practice.
About Pivot Chords
This is the fifth part of our chord analysis of Ikimonogakari’s “Arigatou.”
This time we’ll look at pivot chords.
The Song
Video Tutorials
1. Identifying the Key
2. Chord Progressions
3. Non-Diatonic Chords
4. ii–V Progressions
5. Pivot Chords (this article)
6. Secondary Dominants and Minor Subdominants
7. Slash Chords
Pivot Chords: A Bridge Between Keys
The Bm7(♭5) in the middle of the chorus of “Arigatou”
is the vii chord in C major.
It is rarely used in isolation here; its relationship to the following E7 is important.
If we hear E7 as the V (dominant) in A minor, Bm7(♭5) is the iiø7 (predominant),
forming the ii–V relationship covered in the previous article.
The following Am7 is also diatonic to C major.
Let’s consider whether it also belongs to another key.
The D7 immediately after it is the dominant of G major.
If we consider the following G major chord to be implied rather than played, D7 is the V (dominant) in G major,
while Am7 is the ii (predominant), making another ii–V relationship like the one above.
One way to move between keys, including a temporary move, is to use a chord common to both as a point of transition.
This shared chord is called a pivot chord.
It bridges the two keys, much like a transfer station between railway lines.
By using a pivot chord, you can create a remarkably smooth transition between keys, including a temporary move, that the listener may barely notice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What does a pivot chord do?
A pivot chord is shared by the original and destination keys and bridges the move from one to the other. Like a transfer station, it can make the transition feel smooth and unobtrusive.
Q2. Which chord is presented as a pivot in “Arigatou”?
Am7 is the example. It is diatonic to C major and also functions as ii, a predominant chord, in G major, helping connect the keys.
Q3. What is the benefit of using a pivot chord?
A pivot chord can make a change of key flow naturally without drawing the listener’s attention to it. It is a useful technique for composition and arrangement.
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