When modulating to a closely related key from C Major, both keys should share a few chords. To find closely related keys, take a look at their chords! Let’s use C Major as an example. Modulating to a Closely Related KeyĬlosely Related Keys are keys that share many common tones with one another. In this situation, F# Minor is technically “borrowing” the IV chord from F# Major (B Major).

Using the same example, “Happy Together” uses a B Major chord as a transition between F# Minor and F# Major. The dominant chord can be used to transition from one key to the next, however, you can also borrow chords from the parallel major/minor key to make the switch. This makes the overall harmonic structure very similar. Modulating to a Parallel Key is another easy task because Parallel Keys share the same dominant chord. The verses are in F# Minor, but as soon as the chorus hits, there is a switch to F# Major. One of the best demonstrations of Parallel Key Modulation can be found in the song “ Happy Together” by The Turtles. For example, the parallel key of G Major is G Minor. Parallel keys are major scales and a minor scales that have the same tonic. One of the reasons this particular modulation is so effective is because you don’t even get an E♭ chord until the chorus. The verses are in C Minor while the chorus is in E♭ Major. However, since both keys share the same key signature, it can be hard to tell if the song is modulating or not.Ī great example of a song that modulates to a relative key is “ Mirrors” by Justin Timberlake. Modulating from a major key to its relative minor (or vice versa) is one of the easiest ways to perform modulation because the obstacle of changing to a key with different accidentals does not exist. The Circle of Fifths easily identifies relative keys.

Relative keys are the major and minor scales that have the same key signatures, for example, D Major and B Minor (both keys have two sharps). But don’t worry, we’re here to help! We’re going to give you a complete guide to musical modulation, and hopefully, inspire you to try it in your compositions! Modulating to a Relative Key But with so many different ways to modulate, it can get a little confusing. Have you ever heard an epic key change that made a pretty good song instantly legendary? Modulation ( the act or process of changing from one key to another) in music is always a pleasant surprise to listeners as well as an excellent tool for songwriters and musicians.

B flat minor songs