Exploring the Chords of “Dragonball Durag” by Thundercat: A Fusion of Funk and Fandom

The song “Dragonball Durag” by Thundercat is a smooth and funky track that blends anime-inspired humor with soulful grooves. As one of Thundercat’s standout songs, it features a unique chord progression that captures his signature sound—playful, sultry, and musically rich. Musicians and fans alike have sought to learn the chords of “Dragonball Durag” to replicate its vibe or simply jam along.

This article breaks down the chords of “Dragonball Durag,” exploring its harmonic structure, stylistic influences, and why it resonates with fans of both music and Dragon Ball.

1. Overview of “Dragonball Durag”

Released in 2020 as part of the album It Is What It Is, “Dragonball Durag” is known for:

• Its Playful Lyrics: Mixing anime references (like Dragon Ball) with romantic and humorous themes.
• Groovy Basslines: Thundercat’s virtuoso bass playing serves as the foundation of the track.
• Rich Harmonies: The chords provide a lush backdrop for the melody, embodying the track’s funky and laid-back vibe.

2. The Chord Progression

The chords in “Dragonball Durag” are characterized by their jazzy and soulful quality. Below is a common interpretation of the progression in the song’s verses and chorus:

Verse Progression

The verses primarily rely on warm, jazzy chords that loop smoothly:

1. Fmaj7
2. Am7
3. D7
4. G7

• Fmaj7 sets a relaxed, dreamy tone with its major seventh quality.
• Am7 introduces a soulful, minor touch that adds depth.
• D7 serves as a pivot chord, creating tension and a sense of movement.
• G7 resolves the progression with a groovy and grounded feel.

Chorus Progression

The chorus shifts slightly, introducing more dynamic harmonic movement:

1. Bbmaj7
2. Am7
3. G7
4. C7

• Bbmaj7 enriches the sound with a bright and expansive tone.
• Am7 connects the major and dominant chords, maintaining the soulful vibe.
• G7 and C7 create a funky turnaround, leading seamlessly back into the verse.

3. Stylistic Analysis

3.1. Jazz and Soul Influences

• The use of maj7 and 7th chords reflects Thundercat’s jazz background, imbuing the song with a smooth and sophisticated feel.
• The progression’s subtle modulations and voice leading keep it engaging and musically satisfying.

3.2. Funk Grooves

• The rhythm and groove of the chords complement the funky bassline, creating a danceable and laid-back vibe.

3.3. Thundercat’s Signature Sound

• Known for his ability to blend humor with complex musicianship, Thundercat’s chord choices in “Dragonball Durag” balance playfulness with technical depth.

4. How to Play the Chords

Guitar Tips

• Use barre chords or open chord shapes for a fuller sound.
• Add embellishments like hammer-ons or slides to mimic Thundercat’s jazzy feel.

Piano Tips

• Focus on smooth voice leading to transition between chords.
• Experiment with extensions like adding the 9th or 13th to enrich the harmonies.

5. Why Fans Love the Song’s Chords

5.1. Accessibility

• While the chords are rich and layered, they’re approachable for intermediate players, making the song a favorite among musicians.

5.2. Emotional Resonance

• The warm and jazzy harmonies evoke a relaxed and feel-good atmosphere, perfectly matching the song’s playful lyrics.

5.3. Musical Depth

• For advanced players, the opportunity to explore improvisation over the chord changes adds another layer of enjoyment.

6. Connection Between Music and Dragon Ball

The playful references to Dragon Ball in the song’s lyrics align with its fun and funky musical vibe:

• Anime Meets Funk: The juxtaposition of lighthearted anime references with sophisticated jazz harmonies mirrors Thundercat’s ability to merge humor with artistry.
• Fandom as Inspiration: The song celebrates fandom as a source of creativity and self-expression.

7. Learning Resources

Chord Charts

• Websites like Ultimate Guitar and Chordify offer user-generated chord charts for “Dragonball Durag.”

Tutorials

• YouTube tutorials break down the song’s chords and riffs, often with insights into Thundercat’s playing style.

Sheet Music

• Official sheet music or transcriptions may include detailed arrangements for piano, guitar, or bass.

Conclusion: The Musical Brilliance of “Dragonball Durag”

“Dragonball Durag” is more than just a playful ode to anime and style—it’s a testament to Thundercat’s ability to blend humor, soul, and technical mastery into a cohesive musical experience. Its lush chords and groovy rhythm make it a joy to play, while its connection to Dragon Ball adds a layer of charm for fans.

Whether you’re a musician looking to learn its chords or a fan of both funk and anime, “Dragonball Durag” invites you to embrace your individuality and have fun—because, as Thundercat proves, even with a durag inspired by Dragon Ball, you can feel “kinda fly.”

ライト

鳥山明さんの大ファン

鳥山明さんの作品をこよなく愛するドラゴンボールが好きな漫画オタクです。世の中のアニメ全般が好きで、クリエイターの皆様を応援しています。