Feel It Still

Key and Pitch

The song “Feel It Still” by Portugal. The Man is in the key of F minor.

Instruments and Effects

• Bass Guitar: Driving, infectious bassline.
• Guitar: Crisp, clean with reverb.
• Drums: Steady, simple beat with snare and hi-hat prominence.
• Trumpet: Accents with bright, punchy notes.
• Synths: Underlying texture, electronic hum.
• Vocals: Smooth, falsetto delivery with echo effects.

The bass is the main instrument, with a vintage style reminiscent of 1960s Motown.

Instrument Uniqueness

The bassline is catchy, repeated, and central. It dances with percussive plunks and slides, creating a groove that sticks. The bass acts almost as a lead, carrying the melody with punchy rhythms and mellow tones.

Prevalent Notes and Playing Style

The bassline prominently features notes on F, Ab, Bb, and C played in a syncopated and sliding manner.

Sound Description: The bass has a thick, buttery sound with a staccato attack: “plunk-plink-thum-thum”.

Phonetic Breakdown of Instrument Chords

F minor: “fung-fwung”, Ab: “dap”, Bb: “bib”, C: “chug”.

Vocals

The vocals are high-pitched, airy, and smooth, delivered in a falsetto. A whispering breeze over a pulsing groove.

Metaphor: The vocals are a playful kite, catching the wind, soaring above a rhythmic field.

Phonetic Breakdown of Key Lyrics

“Ooh woo, I’m a rebel just for kicks now”: “oo-woo”, “I’m uh rehab-uh jus’ foh keeks nar”.

Instrument and Vocals Harmony

The harmony between the bassline and the vocals creates a lively tension, like a swinging pendulum, where the melody feels effortlessly upheld by the bass’s groovy insistence.

Keys to Playing/Singing

• Bass: Emphasize the syncopated groove in F minor.
• Drums: Keep the beat simple and clean.
• Vocals: Focus on falsetto, airy delivery.
• Harmony: Blend the bassline harmonically with the vocal melody.

Amidst the chaos of the old vinyl store’s backroom, a faint crackle erupted as the needle dropped on a dusty record. June, perched on the edge of a splintered table, felt a wave of nostalgia reach through the static-laden melody. Stacks of forgotten albums thrust into every imaginable crevice, the walls plastered with sun-bleached posters of bands long dissolved.

Finn, her partner in crime, waltzed through the clutter as if navigating a dance floor, untouched by time. He grinned as he unearthed a polaroid from a broken record sleeve, an image of them from an era drenched in rebellion and sweet disregard for the rules. They both exchanged a look that bridged the years, an unspoken pact to disrupt the dullness creeping into their lives.

“We could start a revolution, you know?” June mused, her eyes glinting with youthful mischief once more.

Finn laughed, hand outstretched to pull her into a spontaneous twirl. “Or at least feel like we still can,” he chimed, as the tunes of yesteryear swirled around them, wrapping them in a momentary rebellion.

Composition Analysis of “Feel It Still”

• Sample Origin: The song incorporates a prominent bass line that is sampled from “Please Mr. Postman” by The Marvelettes. It’s a key element that grounds the song’s groove.
• Loops and Layers: The song features a catchy guitar riff repeated throughout the track, alongside looping percussion elements that provide a rhythmic foundation.
• Vocal Track: The lead vocals are smooth and layered, with background harmonies adding depth, yet the delivery feels somewhat derivative of retro styles.
• Originality: While the tune capitalizes heavily on nostalgic elements, the fresh arrangement and polished production lend it a contemporary flair. However, the heavy reliance on past hits does bring its originality into question.

Verse 1

Rebel vibes start the track off. A nod to the ’60s freedom movement, blended with a modern twist. Tells of a restless spirit not content with standing still.

Chorus

Catchy and repetitive, easy to sing along. It’s about resisting conformity, feeling alive and unshackled. Confident in its simplicity.

Verse 2

Introduces a hint of personal regret or missed opportunities. Despite this, there’s a celebration of youth and remaining vibrant.

Post-Chorus

Continues the theme of non-conformity. Reinforces the main message of the song with a brief but effective hook.

Bridge

A shift in tone, feels like a confession or a realization. It underscores the song’s connection to past and present resistance movements.

Break

Musical interlude that maintains the song’s energy. Serves as a breather before the final chorus.

Final Chorus

A repeat but with increased enthusiasm. Feels like the culmination of the song’s message. Ends with a defiance and celebration of freedom.

Feel It Still – Chord Progression

The main chord progression for “Feel It Still” is:

• Verse: Am – Em – C – G
• Chorus: Am – Em – C – G

Chords for Piano and Guitar

Piano Chords

• Am: A – C – E
• Em: E – G – B
• C: C – E – G
• G: G – B – D

Guitar Chords

• Am: 0 0 2 2 1 0
• Em: 0 2 2 0 0 0
• C: 0 3 2 0 1 0
• G: 3 2 0 0 0 3

Special Playing Instructions

Focus on a steady, upbeat rhythm. Use a staccato touch on the chords to match the song’s groove.

Finger Placement

Piano

• Am: Use fingers 1 (thumb), 2 (index), and 4 (ring).
• Em: Use fingers 1, 2, and 3.
• C: Use fingers 1, 2, and 5.
• G: Use fingers 1, 2, and 4.

Guitar

• Am: Place your index on the 1st fret, 2nd on the 2nd fret of the D string, 3rd on the 2nd fret of the G string.
• Em: Open strings.
• C: Index on the 1st fret of the B string, middle on the 2nd fret of the D string, ring on the 3rd fret of the A string.
• G: Place your fingers on respective frets as described above.

Chord Diagrams

Am:

    E|---0---    B|---1---    G|---2---    D|---2---    A|---0---    

Em:

    E|---0---    B|---0---    G|---0---    D|---2---    A|---2---    

C:

    E|---0---    B|---1---    G|---0---    D|---2---    A|---3---    

G:

    E|---3---    B|---3---    G|---0---    D|---0---    A|---2---    E|---3---    

Expert Advice

Practice switching between chords slowly before speeding up. Keep an ear out for timing. Use a metronome if necessary. Ensure all notes are clean, especially when playing rhythmically. Avoid unnecessary tension in your hands.

Enigmatic echoes of rebellion beckon through shadows of rhythm, where the complicity of tomorrow’s whispers syncopate the heartbeat of nostalgia.

Analysis of “Feel It Still” by Portugal. The Man

Tone

The tone of “Feel It Still” is upbeat and lively. It has a carefree feel. The lyrics talk about wanting freedom and having fun. The song feels rebellious but also playful. There’s a hint of nostalgia, but it doesn’t weigh the song down. Instead, it keeps it light. The mood stays energetic throughout. This energy keeps listeners engaged and excited.

Tempo

The tempo of “Feel It Still” is steady and fast. It gives the song a danceable quality. The pace drives the music forward. Listeners can easily tap their feet or dance along. This fast tempo builds excitement. It also makes the song feel urgent. It grabs attention right away and holds it. The consistency of the tempo helps keep the song moving quickly.

Melody

The melody in “Feel It Still” is catchy and simple. It sticks in your head after just one listen. The vocal melody flows smoothly. It has a mix of higher and lower notes, making it interesting. The main hook is easy to remember. It feels fresh, but it also has a classic vibe. This mix appeals to a broad audience. The melody works well with the lyrics. It enhances the overall fun of the song.

Rhythm

The rhythm in “Feel It Still” is sharp and bouncy. The beat is strong and driving, creating a sense of movement. Percussion plays a big role, adding groove and energy. The rhythm encourages listeners to move. It makes the song feel alive. Syncopation adds surprises. This keeps the rhythm engaging. Even during repetitive sections, the variations maintain interest.

Harmony

The harmony in “Feel It Still” is simple but effective. It supports the melody without overwhelming it. The chord progressions are repetitive. This creates a base that makes the main elements stand out. The use of minor chords adds a touch of depth. It gives a slight edge to an otherwise bright song. Background harmonies build richness. They enhance the main vocal line and create a fuller sound.

Instrumentation

Instrumentation in “Feel It Still” is eclectic. It features bass guitar prominently, giving it a funky feel. The drums provide a solid foundation. They drive the rhythm forward. Keys add texture. They create a layered sound that feels rich yet accessible. Light guitar riffs add extra flair. The mix of instruments keeps the arrangement lively. Each instrument plays a clear role.

Lyrics

The lyrics focus on themes of freedom and resistance. They mix playful language with a sense of urgency. Lines encourage breaking rules and living in the moment. This matches the song’s overall vibe. The lyrics are straightforward. They convey a clear message without being complicated. Each line has rhythm, matching the beat well.

Structure

The structure of “Feel It Still” is traditional. It includes verses, choruses, and a bridge. This familiar layout helps listeners connect. Each chorus is catchy and repetitive. It reinforces the song’s main message. The verses build up to these catchy moments. The bridge offers a moment of contrast. It creates a slight break before diving back into energy.

Overall Impact

“Feel It Still” is a song built for enjoyment. Its upbeat tone, fast tempo, and catchy melody create an inviting atmosphere. The rhythm pushes listeners to move. The simple harmony supports the melodies effectively. The instrumentation keeps things interesting. Together, they make the song fun and engaging. It captures attention and remains memorable. The themes of freedom resonate widely and add depth to an otherwise lighthearted track.

Comparisons to Other Works

In comparison to other songs, “Feel It Still” stands out. It carries influences from various genres. It blends pop with funk and rock elements. This mix creates a fresh sound. Many songs might try to achieve a similar vibe but often fall short. The song’s production is modern, while the feel is timeless. It manages to be both contemporary and nostalgic. This balance is challenging to achieve and adds to its appeal.

Repetitiveness and Engagement

Repetitiveness in “Feel It Still” works well. The chorus often repeats, making it easy to sing along. This is crucial for engagement. Listeners feel a part of the experience. The rhythm and melody complement this repetition. It never becomes dull. Instead, it reinforces the main ideas. The verse contrasts enough to maintain interest but returns to the catchy parts quickly.

Audience Reach

The audience for “Feel It Still” is broad. It appeals to younger listeners who enjoy dance music. Older listeners might connect with its classic vibes. The catchy melody and relatable lyrics draw in many fans. The sound fits well in various settings. It works in parties, on the radio, or even in quiet moments. This versatility expands its reach.

Commercial Success

The song achieved significant commercial success. Its catchy nature helped it rise on charts. It reached audiences globally and received airplay on numerous platforms. It earned various awards and nominations. This shows its impact in popular music. The song’s success proves how accessible and enjoyable it is.

Live Performance

In live performances, “Feel It Still” shines. Its energy translates well to a stage. Audiences respond positively. They often sing along, creating a communal vibe. The upbeat nature encourages movement. The band plays with enthusiasm, which enhances the overall experience. This synergy between the performers and crowd adds to its appeal.

Cultural Significance

“Feel It Still” also holds cultural significance. The themes of rebellion resonate with listeners, especially younger generations. It connects to modern ideas of freedom and self-expression. The song aligns with movements that advocate for change. This aspect deepens its impact beyond just music. It becomes part of conversations about culture and society.

Influences

The song draws influences from various styles. Elements of funk, rock, and pop meld. This blend creates a unique signature sound. The bass line especially stands out as a nod to funk traditions. This connection gives the song depth and texture. It feels familiar yet fresh, appealing to wide tastes.

Final Thoughts

In summary, “Feel It Still” by Portugal. The Man is a song that combines multiple elements to create an inviting and energetic experience. Its tone, tempo, melody, rhythm, and harmony work together flawlessly. The lyrics invite listeners to embrace freedom and live in the moment. This combination creates a track that is not only fun but also significant. It resonates with a broad audience, ensuring its place in modern music history.

Subverting Nostalgia

“Feel It Still” isn’t just a catchy tune; it’s a commentary on the tension between nostalgia and rebellion. At its core, the song captures a profound discontent with the status quo. The upbeat rhythm and playful melodies mask a deeper urgency—the kind that pushes one to question societal norms.

The Irony of Rebellion

On the surface, the lines invite you to dance, but dig deeper and you uncover a paradox. The protagonists seem to revel in freedom, yet they are caught in the throes of a world that perpetuates old patterns. There’s a bittersweet acknowledgment that freedom is often more about feeling than actual liberation.

Emotional Dissonance

This dissonance mirrors the conflicting emotions we all navigate. The infectious energy of the chorus juxtaposes against lyrics steeped in rebellion. It’s a compelling portrait of our collective resistance to becoming mere echoes of the past. The desire to “feel it” signifies not just an urge to experience joy, but an assertion of existence amidst a chaotic world.

Chasing Fleeting Moments

In a world saturated with distractions, the song captures a fleeting moment of elation while simultaneously acknowledging its transience. The refrain suggests that feeling alive is contingent on a willingness to embrace impermanence. The call to action—whether metaphorical or literal—urges listeners to reclaim agency in a time marked by passivity.

The Ripple Effect

Ultimately, “Feel It Still” serves as a microcosm of broader societal themes. It invites introspection about how casual interactions shape larger narratives. The catchy chorus keeps us coming back, but it’s the underlying message that unsettles: Can feeling something tangible truly break us from cycles entrenched in societal complacency?

A Provocative Reflection

It’s this push and pull that makes the song compelling. We are told to embrace life, to “feel it still,” yet confronted by the question: what are we really feeling? Perhaps the true rebellion lies not just in the acceptance of joy, but in confronting our reluctances and fully engaging with the present—even when it’s uncomfortable.