The song "Still Alive" from the video game Portal is primarily in D major and B minor.
Understanding Musical Keys
In music, a "key" refers to the group of pitches, or scales, that form the basis of a musical composition. It establishes a tonal center, providing a sense of stability and resolution. Songs can often shift between related keys, particularly between a major key and its relative minor.
The Key Signature of "Still Alive"
"Still Alive" utilizes both D major and its relative minor, B minor. This duality is common in compositions, allowing for shifts in mood and harmonic color within the same piece. D major often evokes a bright or triumphant feeling, while B minor can convey a more somber, reflective, or even melancholic tone.
For a deeper look at the song's structure and characteristics, consider the following details:
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Key | D major, B minor |
| Genre | Folk |
| Ensemble | Mixed Ensemble |
| Measures | 88 |
The Relationship Between D Major and B Minor
D major and B minor are known as relative keys. This means they share the same key signature—in this case, two sharps (F# and C#). Every major key has a corresponding relative minor key, which is located three half-steps (or a minor third) below the major key's root note. For D major, counting down three half-steps leads to B, hence B minor is its relative minor. This close relationship allows composers to transition smoothly between the brighter major and the more introspective minor mode, enriching the musical narrative without drastic harmonic changes.
This interplay between D major and B minor contributes to the memorable and emotionally resonant quality of "Still Alive," reflecting the game's blend of humor, challenge, and poignant moments.
