Why Elton John’s “Crocodile Rock” Makes You Wait for the Classic Rock Chord Progression!
“Crocodile Rock” isn’t just a nostalgic tune; it’s a clever musical statement that subverts expectations! The song is a playful commentary on ’50s rock and roll, intentionally avoiding the expected 1-minor 6-4-5 progression (the “DROP”) until the very end. Rob breaks down how this delayed gratification is key to the song’s lasting appeal.
EDIT: Around the 13-minute mark I talk about D diminished as the 7th chord of C.. That’s wrong. I was thinking B while saying D.. I just confused my B&D.
Grab your Gear Here:
Tascam Model 12: https://amzn.to/4h2BSZz
MPC Key 37: https://amzn.to/48RiRav
Mpc One+: https://amzn.to/4h8gr9S
MPC Live 3: https://amzn.to/4mXwSa2
In this Song Story, you’ll learn about:
01:15 The Song’s Context: Looking back on the 50s through rose-tinted glasses
02:00 Avoiding the Trope: The classic chord progression that Elton John holds back from the listener
03:48 The Verse Progression: Analyzing the G-B minor-C-D movement in the main verse
04:36 Lyrical Analysis: Breaking down the chorus and the theme of idealized, nostalgic youth
07:49 What is “Crocodile Rock?”: Exploring the scandalous, new kind of dancing referenced in the lyrics
09:38 The Jazz Detour: The unexpected 2-5-1 jazz progression using 7th chords
16:17 The Wait is Over: The la-la-la section finally introduces the classic rock ‘n’ roll chord progression
