Whether it be the latest pop tune or a song long forgotten, I think it’s easy to say that everyone has that one song that strikes a chord in them (Or maybe it’s multiple songs if you’re like me and you can’t pick just one). The song that you hear and no matter where you are you just want to scream YES! The song that makes your bad day turn into a not so bad day for those few minutes you just let yourself enjoy the words, the melodies, the rhythms and just let yourself sink into it. The only thing that can beat out the feeling of hearing that song is hearing an equally amazing piano version. Just the artist and the piano, their voice harmonizing with the keys, gives the listener a sense of intimacy that makes the song all the more personal. So, with that in mind, here is a list of songs that are amazing in and of themselves, but sound just as amazing on the piano.
1. "This is Gospel" by Panic! at The Disco
Now I’ll admit, Panic! at the Disco is my favorite band and I may be a little biased for making them number one on the list, but the piano version of This is Gospel gives a certain feeling that the original version just doesn’t. It starts slow and crescendos into something beautiful, gaining power and authority throughout. The lyrics are a perfect mix of clarity and ambiguity; you feel the meaning even if the lyrics don’t necessarily make sense. Overall, a fantastic song and a fantastic band.
2. "Chandelier" by Sia
This was actually the song that inspired this list.The piano version of Chandelier has a completely different meaning listening to the original version and the piano version. The original gets the listener into a party mood, giving them feelings of wild nights and having a good time. The piano version, however, sounds like a lament, the story of someone trying to escape from sadness with alcohol, which lets them have a brief moment of happiness. Having just the piano allows you to hear the lyrics better and the slower tempo allows for you to think more about what you’re listening to and connect more emotionally. Whether Sia intended for it to sound so different or not, the song is definitely a piece worth listening to.
3. "Bad Blood" by Bastille
This cover is one I like because it is so similar to the original, yet so different. The song is pretty much sung the same way it would be in the original song, yet the piano parts differ and give the piece a darker feel. While the original song is still great, the piano version gives it more energy that keeps you entranced and enticed. Bastille is a fantastic band in and of itself, but they really outdo themselves with this piano version of Bad Blood.
4. "Die With You" by Beyoncé
We all know Beyoncé is amazing. She’s a strong role model and incredible artist who is a favorite to all. Therefore, it’s no surprise that she’s on this list of amazing songs on piano that everyone needs in their life. If you’re thinking “I’ve never heard of that song before,” it’s because the song isn’t available on any music platforms. It was made to honor Jay Z and Beyoncé’s wedding anniversary and the only way to view it is on Jay Z’s Tidal page or on vimeo, which I highly recommend you do because it is well worth the listen. Beyoncé’s voice rings out against the soft sound of the piano keys and though the audio of the song so far isn’t the best quality, the song still manages to be just as incredible.
5. "Bound to You" by Christina Aguilera
Okay, so this song isn’t solely piano but it’s still an incredible song and I thought it definitely deserved a spot on the list. Christina Aguilera has the vocal chords of an angel and she knows how to use her voice to really emphasize her lyrics. Her vocals dominate the piece, which is why I felt it would be perfect to add to the list. It’s powerful, it’s moving, and it’s unique.
