Major (song)

In music theory, a "major" song refers to a composition primarily built around a major key. A major key is characterized by a bright, uplifting, or positive sound, in contrast to the darker or more somber sound of a minor key. This characteristic derives from the intervals within the major scale, particularly the major third between the tonic and the third degree of the scale.

A song in a major key typically uses chords that are diatonic (belonging to the key) and have a major quality themselves, though minor chords and chromatic alterations may be incorporated for harmonic interest and expression. The overall impression created by a major song is generally one of happiness, resolution, or triumph. However, it's important to note that mood and emotional impact are complex and influenced by factors beyond just the key, including tempo, instrumentation, lyrics, and performance style.

The term "major" can also apply to individual chords within a song, indicating that the chord's structure contains a major third interval between its root and third. Therefore, a song, even if it modulates or contains minor sections, may still be considered a "major song" if its primary tonal center and prevailing harmonic language are major.