42 Most Famous Songs in A Minor Key – A Comprehensive List

Music has a powerful way of connecting with our emotions, and the minor key, particularly A minor, often taps into feelings of melancholy, drama, and introspection.

Let’s explore some of the most iconic songs written in this evocative key, each bringing its own unique blend of emotions and musical mastery.

42. “Nothing Else Matters” by Metallica

“Nothing Else Matters” is another Metallica classic that uses the A minor key to convey deep emotion. The song’s orchestral arrangement and heartfelt lyrics have made it a timeless ballad in the heavy metal genre.

• James Hetfield wrote “Nothing Else Matters” about a girlfriend he missed while touring. Initially, he did not intend to share it with the band or release it to the public.
• The song’s classical ballad style appealed to a broader audience than Metallica’s typical heavy metal fan base, significantly increasing the band’s mainstream popularity.
• “Nothing Else Matters” is featured as a playable track in the video game Guitar Hero: Metallica and has been covered nearly 100 times by various artists.

41. “Tears Don’t Fall” by Bullet For My Valentine

Bullet For My Valentine’s “Tears Don’t Fall” is a powerful A minor song. The song’s intense energy and emotional lyrics make it a favorite among fans of modern metal.

• Award-Winning: “Tears Don’t Fall” won the Kerrang! Award for Best Single, highlighting its popularity and impact within the rock and metal community.
• Music Video Themes: The music video for “Tears Don’t Fall” focuses on themes of betrayal, shame, and cheating, with intense imagery that underscores the song’s emotional weight.
• Band’s Evolution: The song comes from the band’s first full-length album, “The Poison,” and played a crucial role in establishing their reputation in the metalcore genre.

40. “Black” by Pearl Jam

Pearl Jam’s “Black” uses the A minor key to explore themes of love and loss. The song’s raw, emotional delivery and haunting melody make it a standout track in the band’s early catalog.

• Emotional Depth: Eddie Vedder described “Black” as a song about first relationships and the pain of letting go, making it one of the band’s most emotionally resonant tracks.
• Non-Single Success: Despite its popularity, Pearl Jam decided not to release “Black” as a single to prevent it from becoming overly commercialized and losing its emotional impact.
• MTV Unplugged: The song’s performance on MTV Unplugged is particularly celebrated for its raw and intense delivery, further cementing its status as a fan favorite.

39. “Fix You” by Coldplay

Another Coldplay classic, “Fix You” employs the A minor key to build its emotional crescendo. The song’s uplifting message combined with the minor key’s depth creates a powerful and moving experience.

• Personal Connection: Chris Martin wrote “Fix You” to comfort his then-wife, Gwyneth Paltrow, following the death of her father, making the song deeply personal and heartfelt.
• Live Performance: Known for its emotional live performances, “Fix You” often features audience participation during the climactic “lights will guide you home” section, creating a powerful communal experience.
• Cultural Impact: The song has been used in various emotional contexts, such as charity events and memorials, highlighting its message of hope and support during difficult times.

38. “Shape of My Heart” by Sting

Sting’s “Shape of My Heart” is a beautifully crafted song in A minor, with intricate guitar work and introspective lyrics. The song’s melancholy tone and deep lyrical content make it a standout in Sting’s solo career.

• The song was co-written by Sting’s longtime guitarist, Dominic Miller, and features harmonica played by Larry Adler.
• It was used for the end credits of the 1994 film “Léon: The Professional.”
• The lyrics reflect a philosophical and introspective outlook, often interpreted as exploring the complexities and contradictions of a card player’s life.

37. “Creep” by Radiohead

Radiohead’s “Creep” is a grunge-era classic that uses the A minor key to underscore its themes of alienation and self-doubt. The song’s raw emotion and powerful delivery have made it a timeless anthem.

• Thom Yorke, the lead singer, has said the song is about feeling like an outsider and dealing with self-loathing.
• “Creep” was initially not popular in the UK and was even banned by the BBC for being too depressing, but it became a huge hit in the US and globally.
• The distinctive guitar crunch before the chorus was created by guitarist Jonny Greenwood, who wanted to “ruin” the song because he didn’t like it.

36. “Wish You Were Here” by Pink Floyd

Pink Floyd’s “Wish You Were Here” features an acoustic arrangement in A minor, creating a reflective and touching atmosphere. The song’s introspective lyrics and emotive melody make it a standout track in the band’s discography.

• The song is primarily about the band’s original member Syd Barrett and his struggles with mental health and schizophrenia.
• It reflects themes of absence and longing, both for Barrett’s presence and for the earlier, more innocent days of the band.
• The iconic intro was recorded as if it were playing on a car radio, adding to the song’s nostalgic feel.

35. “Yesterday” by The Beatles

“Yesterday” by The Beatles is a beautifully simple song that uses the A minor key to convey a sense of nostalgia and longing. The timeless melody and heartfelt lyrics have made it one of the most covered songs in history.

• “Yesterday” is the most covered pop song in history, with over 3,000 recorded versions according to the Guinness Book of World Records.
• Paul McCartney claimed the melody came to him in a dream, and he initially called it “Scrambled Eggs” before settling on the final lyrics.
• It was the first song The Beatles recorded without their standard line-up; only McCartney performs alongside a string quartet.

34. “Mad World” by Gary Jules

Gary Jules’ cover of “Mad World” is a haunting rendition that uses the A minor key to great effect. The sparse arrangement and introspective lyrics make it a powerful and emotional listen.

• The song, originally by Tears for Fears, was covered by Gary Jules for the film “Donnie Darko,” and his version became a surprise hit.
• Gary Jules’ version is significantly slower and more melancholic compared to the original, enhancing the song’s themes of alienation and sadness.
• The song’s lyrics describe a young person’s feelings of being out of place in the world, reflecting the struggles and despair of growing up.

33. “Summertime Sadness” by Lana Del Rey

Lana Del Rey’s “Summertime Sadness” is a moody, atmospheric track set in A minor. The song’s lush production and melancholic lyrics capture the essence of fleeting summer romance and its inevitable end.

• The music video for “Summertime Sadness” features Lana Del Rey and actress Jaime King as a couple who end their happiness by committing suicide, and it was directed by King’s then-husband, Kyle Newman.
• In 2013, French DJ Cedric Gervais remixed “Summertime Sadness” into a dancefloor anthem, which reached No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100, making it Del Rey’s biggest single at that time.
• Lana Del Rey’s nostalgic sound has made her a favorite for Hollywood soundtracks, with contributions to films like “The Great Gatsby,” “Maleficent,” and “Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark.”

32. “Back to Black” by Amy Winehouse

Amy Winehouse’s “Back to Black” is a soulful track that uses the A minor key to convey themes of heartache and loss. The song’s retro vibe and emotional depth have made it a modern classic.

• “Back to Black” was the first song Amy Winehouse wrote and recorded for her second album, inspired by her split with boyfriend Blake Fielder-Civil and produced by Mark Ronson.
• The song’s title and theme use “black” as a metaphor for depression, and it features mournful strings and a retro musical backdrop inspired by 60s girl-group pop and Phil Spector’s wall of sound.
• After Winehouse’s death, “Back to Black” peaked at No. 8 in the UK singles chart and has since been covered by several artists, including Beyoncé and André 3000 for “The Great Gatsby” soundtrack.

31. “Wicked Game” by Chris Isaak

“Wicked Game” by Chris Isaak employs the A minor key to create a sense of longing and melancholy. The haunting melody and Isaak’s distinctive voice make this song a standout in his catalog.

• “Wicked Game” was inspired by a late-night telephone call from a woman seeking a casual affair, leading Isaak to write the song quickly before she arrived.
• The famous guitar line in “Wicked Game” was created by James Calvin Wilsey, with the bassline and drums sampled from previous recordings and looped.
• The song’s iconic music video, directed by Herb Ritts, featured supermodel Helena Christensen on a black-sand beach in Hawaii and won multiple MTV Video Music Awards.

30. “Hello” by Adele

Adele’s “Hello” uses the A minor key to enhance its themes of regret and longing. The powerful vocal delivery combined with the emotional depth of the minor key creates a truly moving experience.

• “Hello” broke the record for the most downloads in a week in the US, with 1.1 million downloads in its first seven days, surpassing Flo Rida’s “Right Round.”
• The music video, directed by Xavier Dolan and filmed near Montreal, broke the Vevo record for most views in 24 hours with 27.7 million views.
• The song’s opening lyric, “Hello, it’s me,” and its narrative about seeking closure resonate with both personal introspection and reconnecting with past relationships.

29. “Seven Nation Army” by The White Stripes

The White Stripes’ “Seven Nation Army” is instantly recognizable by its iconic bass line, set in A minor. The song’s minimalistic yet powerful composition has made it a modern rock anthem.

• The riff for “Seven Nation Army” was created during a sound check in Melbourne, and Jack White initially considered saving it for a potential James Bond theme.
• The song’s famous riff is played on a guitar with an octave effect to mimic a bass guitar, as The White Stripes did not have a bass player.
• The title “Seven Nation Army” comes from Jack White’s childhood mispronunciation of “Salvation Army,” and the song addresses the downsides of fame and gossip.

28. “Landslide” by Fleetwood Mac

Fleetwood Mac’s “Landslide” is a beautifully introspective song, utilizing the A minor key to underscore its reflective lyrics. The acoustic arrangement and heartfelt vocals make it a timeless piece.

• Stevie Nicks wrote “Landslide” in 1973 while in Aspen, Colorado, reflecting on her relationship with Lindsey Buckingham and her father’s health.
• The song was included in Fleetwood Mac’s self-titled album, released in 1975, with Nicks being the sole credited songwriter.
• It has been covered by various artists, including the Dixie Chicks, who brought it back into the limelight in 2002.

27. “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)” by Eurythmics

“Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)” by Eurythmics features a catchy, synth-driven melody that is anchored in A minor. The minor key adds a layer of intrigue and edginess to this iconic ’80s hit.

• The song was written by Annie Lennox and David A. Stewart during a time of financial struggle and frustration after their first album failed.
• The iconic music video features Annie Lennox with her striking androgynous look, including her orange buzz cut and suit.
• Despite its dark undertones, the song became a massive hit and is considered a synth-pop classic.

26. “Tears in Heaven” by Eric Clapton

Eric Clapton’s “Tears in Heaven” is a touching ballad that uses the A minor key to express deep sorrow and loss. The simplicity of the melody, combined with the emotional weight of the lyrics, makes this song an enduring classic.

• Eric Clapton wrote “Tears in Heaven” in response to the tragic death of his four-year-old son, Conor, who fell from a 53rd-floor apartment window.
• The song was featured in the 1991 movie “Rush” and later appeared on Clapton’s 1992 “Unplugged” album.
• It won three Grammy Awards in 1993: Record of the Year, Song of the Year, and Best Male Pop Vocal Performance.

25. “Enter Sandman” by Metallica

Metallica’s “Enter Sandman” is a powerhouse of a song, using the A minor key to build its dark, foreboding atmosphere. The driving guitar riffs and haunting lyrics come together to create a track that remains a staple of rock music.

• The riff for “Enter Sandman” was created by Kirk Hammett, with some input from Lars Ulrich.
• It was the first song written for Metallica’s album “Black Album.”
• The song’s lyrics, written by James Hetfield, deal with themes of childhood nightmares and fears.

24. “Adventure of a Lifetime” by Coldplay

Coldplay’s “Adventure of a Lifetime” might seem like a high-energy, upbeat song, but its roots lie in the key of A minor. This juxtaposition adds a unique depth to the track, making it both invigorating and subtly complex.

• “Adventure of a Lifetime” was released as the lead single from Coldplay’s seventh studio album, “A Head Full of Dreams,” in 2015.
• The song features a vibrant and groovy dance vibe, with lyrics about feeling alive and rejuvenated.
• The music video is notable for its use of motion-capture technology to animate chimpanzees dancing and performing the song.

23. “Slow Dancing in a Burning Room” by John Mayer

John Mayer’s “Slow Dancing in a Burning Room” employs a minor key to articulate the dissolution of a relationship.

The song’s haunting melody and introspective lyrics are perfectly complemented by this choice, making it a standout track in his repertoire.

• The song is from John Mayer’s 2006 album Continuum, though it was never released as a single.
• It’s considered one of Mayer’s signature songs, often praised for its emotional depth and guitar work.
• The song has been widely covered by other artists and is a staple in Mayer’s live performances.

22. “One” by U2

“One” by U2 symbolizes unity and reconciliation through its use in a relative minor key. The song’s emotional depth is enhanced by this musical choice, making it a moving anthem for peace and togetherness.

• The song was released as the third single from their 1991 album Achtung Baby.
• “One” was inspired by the band’s own struggles and the reunification of Germany after the fall of the Berlin Wall.
• It has been used extensively in charity events, including AIDS awareness campaigns, reflecting its message of unity and reconciliation.

21. “The Pretender” by Foo Fighters

Foo Fighters’ “The Pretender” is set in a minor key, driving its themes of defiance and confrontation. The song’s aggressive energy is matched by the intensity of its musical composition, making it a powerful rock track.

• The song set a record by staying at the top of the Modern Rock Tracks chart for 18 weeks in 2007.
• Dave Grohl has mentioned that the song’s aggressive nature was influenced by the political climate of the time.
• It was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Rock Song in 2008.

20. “Smells Like Teen Spirit” by Nirvana

“Smells Like Teen Spirit” became a defining track of the grunge era, using a minor key to convey rebellion and angst. The raw energy of the song is amplified by this choice, making it a timeless anthem of youth disillusionment.

• The song’s title was inspired by graffiti made by Kathleen Hanna of Bikini Kill, who wrote “Kurt smells like Teen Spirit” on Kurt Cobain’s wall.
• Its success brought grunge music into the mainstream, making Nirvana an overnight sensation.
• The music video, featuring a high school pep rally turned into a chaotic mosh pit, became iconic and heavily rotated on MTV.

19. “Counting Stars” by One Republic

“Counting Stars” by One Republic uses a minor key to juxtapose the pursuit of dreams against life’s realities. This contrast creates a dynamic and engaging listening experience, capturing the highs and lows of aspiration.

• The song became OneRepublic’s highest-charting single, peaking at number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100.
• It was the first UK number-one single for lead vocalist Ryan Tedder as a performer.
• The music video, which has over 3 billion views on YouTube, was filmed in a gloomy, abandoned building and features a storyline interspersed with the band’s performance.

18. “Fallin'” by Alicia Keys

Alicia Keys’ “Fallin'” features minor chords that provide a soulful foundation for the song’s themes. The minor key adds a layer of emotional intensity to the song’s exploration of love and heartache.

• Alicia Keys wrote “Fallin'” when she was just 16 years old, and it became her breakthrough single.
• The song earned her three Grammy Awards, including Song of the Year and Best R&B Song.
• Its haunting melody and powerful vocals have made it a timeless R&B classic, often covered by various artists.

17. “The Night We Met” by Lord Huron feat. Phoebe Bridgers

Set in a minor key, “The Night We Met” by Lord Huron and Phoebe Bridgers adds to its haunting and melancholic melody. The minor key enhances the song’s emotional impact, making it a moving listening experience.

• The song gained significant popularity after being featured in the Netflix series “13 Reasons Why,” particularly during a pivotal dance scene between the main characters.
• The song is known for its haunting lyrics that reflect a sense of longing and regret, perfectly capturing the emotions of a romance that has slipped away.
• The version featuring Phoebe Bridgers was re-released in 2018, adding a new layer of depth to the already emotionally charged track.

16. “Stolen Dance” by Milky Chance

“Stolen Dance” uses a minor key to convey a bittersweet sentiment of longing. The track’s laid-back groove is given emotional depth by this musical choice, making it both relaxing and thought-provoking.

• Released in 2012, “Stolen Dance” became a global hit, topping the charts in multiple countries, including Austria, France, and Belgium.
• Milky Chance, a German duo, recorded and produced the song themselves in a home studio, showcasing their DIY ethic and independent spirit.
• The song uses the metaphor of an addict craving drugs to express the longing and desire for a lost love, giving it a deeper, more touching meaning.

15. “Heathens” by Twenty One Pilots

“Heathens” by Twenty One Pilots employs a minor key to enhance its unsettling atmosphere. The song’s dark, brooding vibe is perfectly complemented by this choice, making it a standout track in their catalog.

• The song was specifically written for the soundtrack of the 2016 film “Suicide Squad,” adding a dark and eerie vibe to the movie.
• “Heathens” became a commercial success, reaching number two on the Billboard Hot 100 and further solidifying the band’s popularity.
• The lyrics of “Heathens” are cryptic and have been interpreted in various ways, often seen as a commentary on the band’s outsider status and the pressures of fame.

14. “Hotel California” by Eagles

Eagles’ “Hotel California” uses a minor key to create an eerie ambiance, contributing to its narrative of illusion and entrapment. This haunting atmosphere is a key element of the song’s enduring appeal.

• The working title of the song was “Mexican Reggae,” reflecting its unique blend of musical influences.
• The song is often interpreted as a commentary on the excesses of American life, particularly in California, during the 1970s.
• The guitar solo in “Hotel California” is considered one of the greatest in rock history, featuring a memorable interplay between Don Felder and Joe Walsh.

13. “Californication” by Red Hot Chili Peppers

“Californication” explores themes of materialism and alienation, with the minor key adding a layer of depth to these themes. The song’s introspective nature is amplified by this musical choice, making it a powerful commentary on modern life.

• The song explores the dark underbelly of California, highlighting the superficial and plastic aspects of Hollywood culture.
• The album “Californication” was a massive commercial success, selling over 15 million copies worldwide and becoming one of the band’s most iconic records.
• The lyrics of “Californication” reflect the band’s commentary on the deterioration of society and the obsession with fame and materialism.

12. “Heart of Gold” by Neil Young

Neil Young’s “Heart of Gold” resonates in a natural minor key, giving the song a sincere and vulnerable quality. The simplicity of the melody combined with the emotional depth of the minor key makes this a standout track.

• Despite his extensive and influential career, “Heart of Gold” remains Neil Young’s only number-one hit single in the United States.
• The song uses a straightforward metaphor of mining for a “heart of gold” to express a longing for purity and goodness in the world.
• “Heart of Gold” is from Neil Young’s 1972 album “Harvest,” which is one of his most successful albums, further establishing his legacy as a folk-rock icon.

11. “I Kissed a Girl” by Katy Perry

Katy Perry’s “I Kissed a Girl” combines minor key tones with provocative lyrics, creating a playful yet mysterious vibe. The minor key adds an edge to the song, making it both catchy and intriguing.

• The song was inspired by a hypothetical kiss with actress Scarlett Johansson, as mentioned by Perry herself.
• “I Kissed a Girl” became Katy Perry’s breakthrough hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and staying there for seven consecutive weeks.
• Despite its commercial success, the song received criticism from some LGBT groups who felt it promoted stereotypes and trivialized same-sex relationships.

10. “House of the Rising Sun” by The Animals

A traditional folk song, “House of the Rising Sun” is famously rendered in a minor key by The Animals. This rendition enhances the song’s melancholic themes, making it a timeless piece that continues to resonate.

• The Animals’ version of “House of the Rising Sun” was recorded in one take, capturing the spontaneous and raw energy of the band.
• The song is based on a traditional folk tune that dates back to the 18th century, with various versions depicting different narratives, including a brothel, a gambling den, and a woman’s lament.
• The Animals’ rendition, released in 1964, reached number one on both the UK Singles Chart and the US Billboard Hot 100.

9. “Heart-Shaped Box” by Nirvana

Nirvana’s “Heart-Shaped Box” uses a minor key to deliver a sound filled with discomfort and tension. This choice amplifies the song’s intense emotions and its raw, grunge aesthetic.

• “Heart-Shaped Box” was the last song Kurt Cobain performed live with Nirvana, during a concert in Munich, Germany, on March 1, 1994.
• The song’s lyrics were inspired by a television report Cobain saw about children with cancer, although it also includes references to his relationship with Courtney Love.
• The music video, directed by Anton Corbijn, features surreal and haunting imagery that complements the song’s dark and introspective themes.

8. “Mr. Jones” by Counting Crows

In “Mr. Jones,” Counting Crows balance a minor key with themes of aspiration and envy. The result is a song that feels both reflective and hopeful, capturing the complexities of ambition.

• “Mr. Jones” was inspired by a night out in San Francisco when lead singer Adam Duritz and his friend Marty Jones went to a bar after watching Jones’ father perform.
• The song is about the desire for fame and the longing for a different life, capturing Duritz’s feelings of inadequacy and aspiration.
• “Mr. Jones” was the breakthrough single for Counting Crows, leading to the success of their debut album, “August and Everything After.”

7. “Eye of the Tiger” by Survivor

The driving force behind “Eye of the Tiger” is its minor key, which underscores the song’s theme of determination and resilience. This iconic track continues to inspire with its powerful, motivational vibe.

• “Eye of the Tiger” was written at the request of Sylvester Stallone for the movie “Rocky III” after Queen denied permission to use “Another One Bites the Dust.”
• The song spent six consecutive weeks at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Song.
• The iconic guitar riff and motivational lyrics have made “Eye of the Tiger” a staple in sports and fitness contexts, maintaining its popularity over decades.

6. “California Dreamin'” by The Mamas & The Papas

“California Dreamin'” shifts between minor and major keys, effectively mirroring the contrasting emotions within the song. The blend of longing and hope creates a rich, textured listening experience.

• The song was written by John and Michelle Phillips while they were living in New York City, inspired by Michelle’s longing for the warmth of California.
• Before The Mamas & The Papas recorded it, “California Dreamin'” was first recorded by Barry McGuire, featuring members of The Mamas & The Papas as backing vocalists.
• The song’s melancholic flute solo, played by session musician Bud Shank, became one of its most recognizable features and added to its haunting, nostalgic feel.

5. “The Scientist” by Coldplay

Coldplay’s “The Scientist” features a melancholic piano arrangement set in a natural minor scale. The minor key adds to the song’s reflective nature, making it a go-to track for moments of introspection and emotional resonance.

• “The Scientist” narrates the tale of a man deeply in love who realizes he has neglected his relationship for his work.
• Chris Martin was inspired to write the song after listening to George Harrison’s solo work, particularly the song “All Things Must Pass.”
• The iconic piano riff that drives the song was created by Coldplay guitarist Jonny Buckland three weeks after Chris Martin had written the song’s main structure.

4. “Hurt” by Johnny Cash

Johnny Cash’s cover of “Hurt” is a deeply reflective piece that delves into themes of pain and regret. The minor key plays a crucial role in conveying the raw emotion that makes this version so hauntingly beautiful.

• “Hurt” was originally recorded by Nine Inch Nails in 1994 on their album “The Downward Spiral.” Johnny Cash covered it in 2002, making it one of his last significant releases.
• Trent Reznor, the original writer and performer of the song, was deeply moved by Cash’s rendition, describing it as feeling like he lost his girlfriend to another man.
• The music video for Cash’s version, directed by Mark Romanek, features footage of Cash reflecting on his life and career, making it one of the most affecting music videos ever made.

3. “Stairway to Heaven” by Led Zeppelin

A rock epic, “Stairway to Heaven” transitions seamlessly between a natural minor scale and its relative major key.

This dynamic interplay contributes to the song’s legendary status and its emotional depth, capturing both light and darkness.

• Despite being one of the most famous rock songs of all time, “Stairway to Heaven” was never released as a single to the general public, which contributed to the album’s massive sales.
• The song was subject to controversy with claims of hidden messages when played backward, which the band has always denied.
• The song was composed in a remote cottage in Wales known as Bron-Yr-Aur, where the band retreated to write and relax.

2. “Bad Romance” by Lady Gaga

Lady Gaga’s “Bad Romance” utilizes the minor key to heighten the drama within its themes of love and obsession. The song’s intensity and theatricality are amplified by this choice, creating a track that is as powerful as it is memorable.

• The lyrics include references to three Alfred Hitchcock films: “Psycho,” “Vertigo,” and “Rear Window.”
• Initially intended to be more elaborate and shot in New York City, budget constraints led to the final version being filmed in Los Angeles with a high couture aesthetic.
• The fashion designer Alexander McQueen provided exclusive outfits from his Plato’s Atlantis collection for the video after Gaga sent him an early version of the song.

1. “Losing My Religion” by R.E.M.

“Losing My Religion” stands as an anthem of the ’90s, with its haunting melody and introspective lyrics. The minor key underscores the song’s themes of doubt and existential angst, making it a timeless classic that still resonates today.

• The phrase “losing my religion” is a Southern expression meaning to reach the end of one’s patience, not a literal comment on faith.
• The song’s signature mandolin riff was created by Peter Buck while he was learning to play the instrument and watching TV.
• Despite initial resistance from their label due to its unconventional structure, the song became R.E.M.’s biggest hit, transforming them from college rock icons to international superstars. The accompanying art house video featuring Michael Stipe lip-syncing added to its success.

Famous Chord Progressions in A Minor

A minor is a popular key for many reasons, including its versatility and emotional range. Some commonly used chord progressions in A minor include:

• Am – G – F – E
• Am – C – G – Em
• Am – F – C – G

Each progression brings its own flavor, allowing musicians to craft songs that resonate deeply with listeners.

Final Thoughts

From rock legends to modern pop icons, the A minor key has served as a foundational element in many unforgettable songs. Its versatility allows for a wide range of emotional expression, making it a favorite among musicians across genres.

If it’s the haunting melancholy of a ballad or the driving intensity of a rock anthem, the A minor key continues to captivate listeners with its depth and resonance. Explore these tracks and experience the powerful impact of A minor for yourself.