"Angel" by the iconic American rock band Aerosmith is primarily composed in the key of E♭ major.
Understanding the Key of "Angel"
The song, a power ballad released in 1988 from their album Permanent Vacation, utilizes the E♭ major key to establish its melodic and harmonic foundation. A musical key defines the central note and the set of scales and chords that are used to create the song's melody and harmony, giving it a particular mood or character. Learn more about musical keys
Characteristics of E♭ Major
The key of E♭ major is often chosen for its rich, full sound, making it a common choice for ballads and other emotionally resonant pieces. It provides a stable yet expressive tonal center for the song's melodies and harmonies.
- Root Note: E♭ (E-flat)
- Relative Minor: C minor
- Key Signature: Three flats (B♭, E♭, A♭)
This choice of key contributes significantly to the song's grand, emotional, and somewhat dramatic feel, which is characteristic of many power ballads from that era. The chord progressions and melodic lines within "Angel" consistently revolve around the notes and chords natural to the E♭ major scale, providing a cohesive and impactful musical experience.
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Song Title | Angel |
| Artist | Aerosmith |
| Primary Key | E♭ major (E-flat major) |
| Genre | Power Ballad, Hard Rock |
| Album | Permanent Vacation (1987) |
By grounding the composition in E♭ major, Aerosmith crafted a song that effectively conveys its heartfelt lyrical themes through its strong melodic structure and harmonic depth.
